What does the term "triage" refer to in a medical context?

In a medical context, "triage" refers specifically to the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their injuries or medical conditions. This is a critical step in managing care, especially in emergency situations where multiple patients may require attention simultaneously, such as in a mass casualty incident.

Triage helps healthcare providers determine which patients need immediate attention and which can wait for care without adverse effects. This assessment is crucial because it ensures that limited medical resources are used efficiently and that those in the most critical condition receive treatment first.

Understanding triage is vital for combat medics, as they often operate in environments with limited resources and must make quick decisions to save lives.