Triage: is it safe to wait?

Abstract

Triage is a systematic approach to categorising veterinary patients to ensure that the most emergent are seen first. Triaging a patient begins by obtaining a capsule history from the owner and performing a triage survey. This involves rapid assessment of the patient's perfusion parameters, and the purpose is to identify life-threatening abnormalities. Patients with life-threatening abnormalities should be immediately taken to the treatment area for assessment. A primary survey is then performed, which, in addition to physical examination, may also include point-of-care diagnostics. Life-saving interventions and therapies are administered during the primary survey to preserve the life of the patient. Once the patient has been stabilised, the veterinarian can perform a secondary survey, which involves a full physical assessment of the patient and obtaining a detailed history from the owner.