Disaster Simulation

What is triage?correct answers- refers to using a system to categorize patients and prioritizing their care - sorts victims into categories depending on their ability to be treated and saved goal of triagecorrect answersmaximize survivors using the resources available Why do we need triage?correct answers- The greatest good for the greatest number requires that resources be used wisely - Triage systems reduce chaos, because everyone is using the same system characteristics of an effective triage systemcorrect answers- Systems should be clear - Concrete criteria for categorization - Salvageability is the key, meaning "can this patient be saved?" START triagecorrect answers- Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment - Intended as field triage; victims may require repeated triage as they move thru the system, as their conditions may change - Essential activities: tagging all patients; calming the victims and ensuring them that help is on the way; expect chaos, especially if families are separated or one member is black tagged; once card is filled & patient is identified, tear off small barcode tag and give to triage officer What is the purpose of triage tags?correct answersto sort the patients, help the Triage Officer determine where to send the patients for treatment according to their injuries and beds available at the hospitals, indicate a patient's status, provide vital information for EMS and hospital personnel What does a green triage tag indicate?correct answers- MINOR - includes all walking wounded What does a yellow triage tag indicate?correct answers- DELAYED - respirations: 30/min - perfusion: radial pulse is present OR radial pulse is absent but capillary refill is under 2 seconds - mental status: can follow simple commands What does a red triage tag indicate?correct answers- IMMEDIATE - respirations: 30/min - perfusion: radial pulse is absent OR capillary refill is over 2 seconds - mental status: cannot follow simple commands What does a black triage tag indicate?correct answers- DECEASED - there are no respirations after the head is tilted to reopen the airway information included on the front of a triage tagcorrect answers- Fill out RPM (respiration, perfusion, mental status) and orientation sections - Circle contamination information, if known - Fill out vital sign info (may not have BP, but should be able to get pulse and RR) - Fill out if any meds given on scene - Identify major injuries - Destination section may not be known on initial triage information included on the back of a triage tagcorrect answers- Fill out allergies - Fill out meds - Fill out personal info - Pictures can be used to identify place of injuries - Fill in any other info gathered under NOTES section