TRIAGE

Triage derived from the French verb Trier, which means to sort, or select. Practiced when a mass casualty situation occurs and the needs of casualties overwhelms capabilities to provide that care The best for the most with the least by the fewest. S.T.A.R.T. Triage System.Simple, Triage, And, Rapid, Transport Step1:Clear the scene of any walking wounded. These patients are considered to be in the delayed category. Step 2 Assess Ventilations in remaining patients These patients are considered to be in the delayed category. No respiratory effort- Dead/non-salvageable. Respirations > 30: Critical/Immediate Respirations <30: Delayed Step 3 Assess perfusion: No radial pulse: Critical/Immediate Pulse present: Delayed Step 4 Assess Neurological Status Unconscious: Critical/Immediate Altered Level of Consciousness: Critical/Immediate Altered Mental Process: Critical/Immediate. Normal mental processes: Delayed Intent of TriageProvide immediate help to those who need it. These patients are considered to be in the delayed category. These patients are considered to be in the delayed category Delay care for those who have less threatening injuries. Temporarily set aside those who need care beyond capabilities Mass Casualty Situations Immediate appropriate care for casualties with treatable injuries. Delay care for those with: less immediate needs. care is too time-or asset-consuming. Maximal utilization of medical assets: personnel, supplies, and facilities Triage in a Chemically Contaminated Environment Triage officer is in protective gear. Not immediately available to assist with casualty care. Examination will not be as through as in a clean environment Levels of Triage Triage is a dynamic process. Decision to transport. Designated triage area. Inside the hospital. At any other point. As resources are allocated, and patients conditions change Treatment Priorities for Mass Casualties Mass Casualty Treatment Priorities: Immediate, Delayed, Minimal, Expectant Immediate:Expectant Casualties who require lifesaving care within a short time, when that care is available and of short duration. Delayed:Casualties with severe injuries who are in need of major or prolonged surgery or other care and who will require hospitalization, but delay of this care will not adversely affect the outcome of the injury. Minimal:Casualties who have major injuries, can be helped by non physician medical personnel, will be treated at the scene, and will by returned to duty. Triage of Chemical Agents Chemical Immediate: Casualty who requires antidotes to be given immediately to save life. (as in nerve agent or cyanide poisoning). Triage is done outside of the facility. Patients are disrobed and showered, outside of the facility.