Triage & Mass Casualty Management Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Triage & Mass Casualty Management flashcards as text
What is the most accurate definition of a mass casualty incident (MASCAL)?
Answer: A situation where casualties exceed available medical resources
A MASCAL is defined by the relationship between casualties and resources — it occurs whenever the number of patients overwhelms available medical support, regardless of absolute numbers.
In the Army's 4-tier triage system, what does 'T2 — Delayed' indicate?
Answer: The patient's condition is stable enough that treatment can be safely delayed
T2 (Delayed/Yellow) patients have serious but stable injuries; delaying their treatment temporarily does not place them at immediate risk of death.
Which guiding principle governs resource allocation during a mass casualty triage event?
Answer: Do the greatest good for the greatest number of patients
Mass casualty triage is guided by the utilitarian principle of doing the greatest good for the greatest number by allocating limited resources to maximize overall survival.
What is the PRIMARY purpose of triage tags in a mass casualty incident?
Answer: To communicate triage category and initial treatment to subsequent providers
Triage tags serve as the communication link across the evacuation chain, conveying triage category, identified injuries, and interventions already performed.
During a MASCAL, who is responsible for establishing and running the triage area when no physician is present?
Answer: The senior medical officer or medic on scene
The senior medical officer or medic on scene assumes triage authority until relieved by a higher-ranking medical professional.
What is the correct order of the three phases of care in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)?
Answer: Care Under Fire → Tactical Field Care → TACEVAC
TCCC phases progress from Care Under Fire (active threat) to Tactical Field Care (threat suppressed) to TACEVAC (during evacuation to definitive care).
How frequently should casualties be re-triaged during an ongoing mass casualty event?
Answer: Continuously, based on changing patient conditions and available resources
Triage is a dynamic process; patient conditions change rapidly, so continuous reassessment ensures resources are directed to those with the best current chance of survival.