Triage systems

Abstract

Triage is the process by which patients are assessed upon their arrival at a health care facility to determine the urgency of their problem and to determine the appropriate health care resource. Of the five major types of triage, advanced triage is the most comprehensive system. It includes initial assessment, initiation of diagnostic procedures, appropriate physical examination, documentation, and a referral system. Implementation of a triage system should include didactic components, a clinical trial, written examinations, and documented certification.