Definition & Operational Usage of Patient Triage
What Is Patient Triage?
Categorizing casualties during a mass casualty incident (MCI) using algorithms like START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) to prioritize limited resources.
⚠️ Operational Safety Warning:Do not initiate CPR during primary MCI triage; resources must be conserved.
Why Patient Triage Matters on the Fireground
Maximizes survivability for the greatest number of victims by quickly identifying red (immediate) patients.
Relevant NFPA Standards
- NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
- NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Field Procedures & Tactical Steps
- Direct walking wounded to a designated green zone.
- Assess respirations; if > 30/min, tag red.
- Check radial pulse or capillary refill.
- Evaluate mental status (follows commands).
- Attach colored triage tags to each patient.
Common Context & Application
Bus crashes, active shooter events, or natural disasters.
Frequently Asked Questions about Patient Triage
What does a black tag mean?
Expectant/Deceased; no CPR is performed.
What is START?
An algorithm evaluating Respirations, Perfusion, and Mental Status.
Other Names for Patient Triage
sortingprioritizationclassification
Patient Triage may also appear in training materials, NFPA standards, or department SOPs as: sorting, prioritization, classification.
Relevant Tools
Operational calculators related to Patient Triage:
Category:EMS & Medical
— Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.