North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What would indicate that a patient should be prioritized during triage?

1. Ability to walk

2. Absence of breathing

3. Unconsciousness

4. Normal pulse rate

The correct answer is: Absence of breathing

The indication that a patient should be prioritized during triage is primarily based on the immediacy of their medical condition and the need for urgent intervention. An absence of breathing signifies a life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention, as it indicates that the patient is not receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to brain damage or death within minutes. In triage scenarios, patients who are not breathing must be assisted right away to restore their respiratory function. This is essential because maintaining airway patency and ensuring effective ventilation is vital for survival. Therefore, individuals presenting with this critical sign are ranked as a top priority in the triage process. While factors such as the ability to walk, unconsciousness, and a normal pulse rate may provide useful information about a patient’s condition, they do not carry the same immediate urgency as the absence of breathing. An unconscious patient may need urgent care as well, but without the immediate threat of death associated with respiratory failure, they may not be prioritized as highly.