Major Incident Planning and Support (MIP+S) Level 2

80 videos, 4 hours and 32 minutes

Course Content

What is Triage

Video 11 of 80
7 min 15 sec
English
English
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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.