Abstract
In case of mass casualty incidents (MCI), in German emergency medical services (EMS) systems prehospital triage lies within the responsibility of emergency physicians. In case that there are not enough physicians available to complete triage in a timely fashion, a preliminary medical survey by ambulance personnel (sweeping triage) is indicated. We report the development of a regionally adapted, ...
Abstract
In case of mass casualty incidents (MCI), in German emergency medical services (EMS) systems prehospital triage lies within the responsibility of emergency physicians. In case that there are not enough physicians available to complete triage in a timely fashion, a preliminary medical survey by ambulance personnel (sweeping triage) is indicated. We report the development of a regionally adapted, comprehensive concept for sweeping triage by non-physician EMS personnel. A project team agreed on a triage algorithm, triage labeling, and a strategic concept for the early MCI mission phase. Consecutively, determinations for education, certification, and implementation were made. The Amberg-Schwandorf algorithm for sweeping triage (ASAV) was based on the mSTaRT triage algorithm. By merging the two mSTaRT elements on respiration to a single element named "breathing disorders?", the algorithm was slightly simplified. Additionally, the bleeding control element was modified. Labeling of patients according to triage results is accomplished by colored plastic ribbons. A newly defined algorithm describes the early scene management by the first arriving EMS team. Education of the concept consists of a 3 hour lecture and 1 hour of practical training, followed by a practical exam. A renewal of the certificate is necessary after 3 years. The Amberg-Schwandorf concept fills a gap concerning the early mission phase in existing MCI algorithms. In contrast to mSTaRT, the concept is in agreement with the requirements of the latest German triage consensus conference. Further validation of the concept is mandated.
Altmetric