In disaster response, what does 'triage' involve?

Triage in disaster response is a critical process that involves prioritizing patients based on the severity of their conditions. This method ensures that those who are in the most critical need of immediate medical attention receive care first, especially in situations where resources may be limited. By systematically assessing patients and determining the urgency of their medical needs, responders can effectively manage the situation, allocate resources appropriately, and potentially save more lives.

In a disaster scenario, where multiple patients may require assistance simultaneously, triage plays a crucial role in the overall efficiency of the response efforts. This process also helps to streamline patient treatment paths and can improve outcomes by ensuring that the most severe cases are addressed without delay.