Our senior nursing
class went to Mascatatuck Urban Training Center (MUTC) in order to learn how to
triage victims in mass casualty situations. We focused on a form of triage
called START triage. START stands for “simple triage and rapid treatment”. This
type of triage is indeed simple, as the only factors assessed are the ability
to walk, respiratory rate, capillary refill, and mental status. By properly
assessing victims, we can efficiently identify who needs priority treatment and
who can wait to receive medical attention.
We
each took turns playing the roles of rescuers and victims so that we were able
to get a feel for what both parties experience during these terrifying
scenarios. This was such an incredible learning opportunity that opened our
eyes to the unpredictable and difficult nature of this area of healthcare. First
responders do not always know what to expect when they arrive on the scene, but
they must always be perseverant, level-headed, quick to make decisions, and
brave. Not only did I gain respect for those who are the first to respond and to
perform START triage in emergencies, but I also gained an interest in someday
responding to emergency situations by utilizing the skills I acquired at MUTC.
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