Citation

Klein KR, Burkle FM, Swienton R, King RV, Lehman T, North CS. PLoS Curr. 2016; 8.

Affiliation

Professor The Altshler Center for Education & Research at Metrocare Services and The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Public Library of Science)

DOI

10.1371/currents.dis.d69dafcfb3ad8be88b3e655bd38fba84

PMID

27651979

PMCID

PMC5016230

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: After all large-scale disasters multiple papers are published describing the shortcomings of the triage methods utilized. This paper uses medical provider input to help describe attributes and patient characteristics that impact triage decisions.

METHODS: A survey distributed electronically to medical providers with and without disaster experience. Questions asked included what disaster experiences they had, and to rank six attributes in order of importance regarding triage.

RESULTS: 403 unique completed surveys were analyzed. 92% practiced a structural triage approach with the rest reporting they used "gestalt".(gut feeling) Twelve per cent were identified as having placed patients in an expectant category during triage. Respiratory status, ability to speak, perfusion/pulse were all ranked in the top three. Gut feeling regardless of statistical analysis was fourth. Supplies were ranked in the top four when analyzed for those who had placed patients in the expectant category.

CONCLUSION: Primary triage decisions in a mass casualty scenario are multifactorial and encompass patient mobility, life saving interventions, situational instincts, and logistics.

Language: en