Triage of disaster-related neuropsychiatric casualties
Burkle, F.M.
Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America 9(1): 87-105
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0733-8627 PMID: 2001669 Document Number: 383462
Existing triage algorithms consider, for the most part, only the primary casualty with physical trauma. Algorithms fail to appreciate the primary, secondary, or tertiary neuropsychiatric casualty. Research advances on neuropsychiatric casualties must link with the mandates of emergency medical services and disaster management to improve triage sensitivity and specificity. Early recognition and management of neuropsychiatric casualties will diminish the potential for long-term consequences. Expanded triage algorithm supplements are proposed to improve the recognition of those victims at risk.