What is the process of triage primarily used for in a healthcare setting?

The process of triage is primarily used to prioritize patient care based on the severity of their condition. In healthcare settings, particularly during emergencies or situations where resources are limited, triage helps ensure that patients who are in the most critical need of immediate medical attention receive care promptly. This systematic approach allows healthcare providers to assess the urgency of each patient's condition and allocate available resources effectively.

For example, in a busy emergency department, triage nurses quickly evaluate patients upon their arrival, categorizing them based on factors such as vital signs, symptoms, and the potential for life-threatening conditions. This enables the healthcare team to address the most serious cases first while managing less critical ones appropriately. The primary aim of triage is to maximize patient outcomes and minimize the risk of adverse events by ensuring that those in greatest need get attended to first.