(A258) Is It S.M.A.R.T. To S.T.A.R.T. To S.A.L.T. M.A.S.S. Casualty Victims?

Abstract

Triage of disaster and trauma victims is challenging, especially when responders have limited resources and brief periods of time. Over-triage of victims results in the consumption of resources that would be better utilized on more critical patients, and under-triage can result in increased mortality and/or morbidity, as victims do not receive the appropriate care. In addition, the same patient may be triaged multiple times as they move through echelons of care. These different echelons may have different objectives in the triage process Over the years, multiple triage schemes have been proposed and used, both in exercises and real events. None of these schemes is based on well-defined research, due to the difficulty of carrying out a randomized control study in real events. There has been a concerted effort to apply research findings in a effort to more effectively use resources and thus, improve patient outcomes as well as apply information garnered from after action reports. This presentation reviews the current issues and state of triage for disasters and mass-casualty incidents, drawing on examples from prior events. The ultimate objective of this presentation is to help the responder to better understand the process of triage and apply it to their clinical practice, thereby delivering care in an effective and timely manner.