ATLS Triage and Mass Casualty Incidents 2

Question 1

In the SALT triage method, what does the acronym SALT stand for?

Accepted Answer

Sort, Assess, Lifesaving Interventions, Treatment/Transport

Answer

SALT (Sort, Assess, Lifesaving Interventions, Treatment/Transport) is a CDC-endorsed MCI triage method that integrates immediate lifesaving interventions during individual assessment.

Question 2

Which immediate intervention is permitted during SALT triage individual assessment before assigning a category?

Accepted Answer

Control of major hemorrhage and airway positioning

Answer

SALT triage allows hemorrhage control and airway positioning as immediate lifesaving interventions during the brief assessment phase before assigning a triage category.

Question 3

During a chemical mass casualty event, what is the first priority before treating contaminated patients in the emergency department?

Accepted Answer

Decontamination of patients before they enter the facility

Answer

Secondary contamination of healthcare workers is a critical risk; decontamination must occur outside the facility before patients enter to protect staff and prevent facility shutdown.

Question 4

In a hospital MCI response, what is the role of the Incident Command System (ICS)?

Accepted Answer

Provide a standardized organizational structure with unified command to coordinate all emergency response functions

Answer

ICS provides a scalable, modular command structure that integrates multiple agencies and departments under unified command, preventing communication failures during complex MCIs.

Question 5

A Yellow (Delayed) triage tag in START is appropriate for a patient who meets which criteria?

Accepted Answer

Respirations 10–29/min, radial pulse present, and able to follow commands — injuries serious but not immediately life-threatening

Answer

Yellow (Delayed) indicates the patient is physiologically stable enough to tolerate a delay in definitive treatment without immediate risk of death.

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ATLS - Advanced Trauma Life Support Practice Test

ATLS Triage and Mass Casualty Incidents 2