Wisconsin Trauma Care System 

Implementation of Triage Protocols

Patient triage is an important topic for all components of the trauma care system. DHS 118 provides the authority for the Department to “guide RTAC plan development” including triage and transport protocols. The 2012 Trauma Field Triage Protocol is based on the “Guidelines for Field Triage of Injured Patients; Recommendations of the National Expert Panel on Field Triage, 2011” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, MMWR, January 13, 2012). It has been approved and endorsed by DHS, the Statewide Trauma Advisory Council (STAC) and the EMS Advisory Board during the statewide meetings in October of 2012.

Although Wisconsin's Field Triage Protocol is based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Decision Scheme, a few changes can be noted. State Trauma Advisory Council (STAC) and the EMS Advisory Board recommended two key modifications to the CDC's document: 

1. The initial verification and stabilization of the patient's airway capabilities with advanced airway management interventions if needed; and, 
2. The inclusion of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle for pediatric patients. 

Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Field Triage Decision Scheme. (exit DHS) 

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Last Revised: April 24, 2013