What is the main goal of triage in emergency care?

The main goal of triage in emergency care is to prioritize patient care based on the severity of their condition. Triage is a systematic process used to assess and categorize patients, ensuring that those who are most critically injured or ill receive immediate attention. This approach allows emergency medical personnel to manage resources effectively and deliver timely care to those who need it most, especially in situations where there are multiple patients requiring attention simultaneously.

In a busy emergency department, not all patients can receive treatment at the same instant, so triage helps in determining who requires urgent care and who can wait longer without significant risk. This prioritization is essential for maximizing the chances of survival and favorable outcomes for the most serious cases, ultimately improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of emergency medical services.