What is the purpose of triage in a medical setting?

The purpose of triage in a medical setting is to prioritize patients according to their medical needs. This process is crucial in situations where a healthcare facility has limited resources or when the number of patients exceeds the immediate capacity to provide care. By assessing the severity of each patient's condition, medical staff can focus on treating those who require immediate attention, thereby ensuring that critical cases are handled promptly.

Triage allows for efficient use of medical resources, helping to minimize the risk of complications in seriously ill patients by addressing their needs first. This method not only enhances patient outcomes but also helps streamline the flow of care in busy emergency departments or during mass casualty incidents. Understanding triage is essential for anyone working in a healthcare setting, as it plays a key role in patient care management.