Many of us are familiar with the term ” triage” and its association with ranking the sick or injured in the event of a mass casualty incident, natural disaster, car wreck, or chemical/biological terrorist attack. When patients are appropriately marked with a specific colored triage tape, it allows for these individuals to be categorized for the most efficient and appropriate care. Thankfully, many of us will never have to deal with these tragic events or circumstances directly, but it is extremely beneficial that we know the WHY and HOW behind the use of triage situations, as it is our civic responsibility to assist other citizens when we are able.

A QUICK HISTORY

“To afford the wounded speedy assistance”: Dominique Jean Larrey

…this was the mindset of Dominique Jean Larrey who has long been considered the father of the rapid evacuation plan, which was first put to use during the Napoleonic Wars. This plan, referred to as “Napoleonic Triage,” was used to usher wounded soldiers from the battlefield during combat. Once the injured reached a suitable place for medical attention, specific categorical rules were to be followed in an effort to aid in the triage of war casualties. The original triage system classified soldiers into three distinct groups:

  • Dangerously wounded
  • Less dangerously wounded
  • Slightly wounded

Due to Larrey’s humanitarian approach to aiding soldiers in battle, the mortality rate was significantly reduced, and morale was quickly boosted. Thanks to Dominique Jean Larrey, today we have perfected and continue to grow, the triage system which is used throughout the world

TRIAGE TODAY

Even in today’s medically advanced environment, triage is still one of the most important lessons taught to first responders at every level. The most widely used triage technique can be further defined as the S.T.A.R.T method, which is how victims are evaluated at the scene of an incident. Below are the flagging color codes and their representations:

Red: The 1st Priority is to find and treat the Immediate patients with a life-threatening situation

Yellow: The 2nd Priority is to find and treat the Delayed patients who are not as severe as the first priority patients.

Green: Your 3rd Priority is to find and treat the patients with Minor injuries, that are ambulatory

Black: Your 4th Priority is to find those that are Deceased or require no care

PRESCO’S PART

Presco’s triage tapes are produced from co-extruded polyethylene films. This product was designed in conjunction with the approved casualty management colors of triage ribbon. Our entire line of triage tape is printed with designated S.T.A.R.T. legends to enhance communication between agencies.

By creating top of the line products for first responders and emergency medical crews across the nation, Presco is helping save lives everywhere. If you would like to find out more about the life saving qualities of Presco’s triage tapes, reach out to Presco’s customer service department at 1-800-527-3295 or your Key Account Manager today!