Understanding Triage in Emergency Settings

Definition and Levels of Triage

Mark and Shawn discuss the concept and levels of triage:

• Definition of Triage: Triage is derived from the French word meaning 'to sort'. It involves assessing and sorting patients based on the severity of their condition.
• Levels of Triage: Includes initial scene triage and major incident triage, adapting to different scenarios and resource needs.
• Importance of Dynamic Assessment: Quickly determines patient priority and resource requirements.

Nurse's Perspective on Triage

Mark explains the importance of triage from a nursing perspective:

• Initial Patient Assessment: Crucial for determining severity and necessary treatment.
• Consideration of Treatment Needs: Assessing not only severity but also treatment urgency.
• Pathway Decision-Making: Directing patients to appropriate care pathways to avoid A&E congestion.

Effective Triage Process

Mark and Shawn elaborate on the efficiency and accuracy of the triage process:

• Manchester Triage System: Utilises colour-coded urgency levels (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue) based on initial patient assessment.
• Speeding Up Patient Care: Ensures timely treatment and reduces waiting times by directing patients to the right care pathway.
• Importance of Accurate Assessment: Critical for assigning correct priority and ensuring appropriate treatment location.

A to E Assessment

Mark discusses the A to E assessment process during triage:

• A to E Assessment: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Neurological Disability, and Exposure assessment.
• Quick Evaluation: Rapid assessment to gauge patient severity and immediate needs.
• Time Frame: Ideally completed within 10 minutes to expedite patient care.

Patient Interaction and Satisfaction

Mark addresses patient interaction and satisfaction during the triage process:

• Communication and Comfort: Balancing quick assessment with patient reassurance and understanding.
• Managing Expectations: Informing patients of the triage process and subsequent care pathway.
• Closure and Pathway Guidance: Concluding the triage process with clarity on next steps for the patient.

Understanding and effectively implementing triage ensures patients receive timely and appropriate care, improving overall emergency department efficiency.