What is the triage method used during chemical, radiological, or nuclear events?

The triage method utilized during chemical, radiological, or nuclear events is primarily known as START triage, which stands for Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment. This approach is designed specifically for mass casualty situations where quick assessments must be made to prioritize victims based on the severity of their injuries and the availability of resources.

In the context of hazardous materials, START triage allows first responders to make swift evaluations and categorize patients into different groups, such as those who require immediate assistance, those who can wait for treatment, and those who are unlikely to survive given their conditions. This triage method is essential for optimizing the use of limited medical resources during emergencies involving multiple casualties, ensuring that the most critical patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible.

Understanding that START is the focus during such specialized incidents underlines its importance, as other methods may not adequately address the urgent and unique challenges posed by chemical, radiological, or nuclear events. The combination of simplicity and rapid assessment makes START the appropriate choice for this context.