What does the term "triage" mean in an emergency context?

In an emergency context, "triage" refers to the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their conditions. This method is essential in situations where medical resources are limited, such as mass casualty incidents, to ensure that those who need immediate attention receive it first. By assessing the urgency of each patient's medical needs, responders can allocate their efforts effectively to maximize survival and outcomes.

The concept is rooted in the need for efficiency and critical decision-making in emergency medicine, allowing responders to identify which patients require immediate treatment and which can wait for care. This prioritization is crucial in optimizing the use of resources and delivering timely interventions that can save lives.