What criteria does the START triage system utilize to determine patient priority?

The START triage system (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) is a method used in mass casualty incidents to prioritize patients based on the severity of their conditions. The system categorizes patients into four groups—immediate, delayed, minor, and deceased—by evaluating key indicators of physiological status.

The correct choice identifies the three primary criteria used in the START triage system: pulse rate, respiratory rate, and mental status. These criteria are essential for assessing the immediate threats to life that patients may face.

• Pulse rate provides insight into the circulatory effectiveness and can indicate shock.
• Respiratory rate helps determine the adequacy of breathing, a critical component of life support.
• Mental status assesses the patient's responsiveness and neurological function, indicating possible head trauma or inadequate cerebrovascular perfusion.

By focusing on these three indicators, the START system quickly helps responders prioritize patients who need urgent care, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively during a crisis when every second counts.