Your EMS system uses the Simple Triage and Rapid Transport (START) system for triaging patients at a multiple-casualty incident. Which item should you include in your triage assessment to determine the order in which patients will receive emergency care?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When using the START system for triage, the first item to assess is the patient's respiratory and perfusion status. This is because patients with compromised airway, breathing, or circulation will deteriorate quickly and require immediate intervention to save their lives. After assessing respiratory and perfusion status, the next items to assess are level of consciousness and other injuries/illnesses (which may include chief complaint, vital signs, and past medical history). However, the order in which these items are assessed may vary depending on the specifics of the incident and the resources available.

Your EMS System Uses the Simple Triage and Rapid Transport