GRM Lesson 1- Introduction to Triage

Triage is the art of assigning priority to emergency victims and based on the rapid assessment of physical status. Triaging an animal in an emergency should take no more than 5 minutes. The goal is to quickly identify if an animal has a life-threatening condition so it can be attended to as quickly as possible. If an animal requires immediate evaluation by a veterinarian, verbal permission or signed medical consent should be obtained from the owners that authorize the appropriate emergency treatment. This can include performing emergency procedures on the animal such as placing IV catheters, intubating an animal, administering medication, etc.

First, perform a rapid, whole-body exam looking for wounds, bruises, abdominal pain/distention, and any other signs of debilitation. Wounds to the thorax or abdomen can be critical even if the animal appears stable.

How to be a Prepared in an Emergency

When handling a medical emergency with a pet you will likely need to bring an animal to the closest veterinary hospital.  Prior to leaving for the vet, you should do the following:

Call ahead, if possible- If at all call the vet when you are on your way. This can be extremely helpful as the veterinary staff can prepare for the animal’s arrival by setting up equipment and medications that will be needed.

Try to collect all relevant information- Having the animal’s breed, age, vaccination status, and any medications they are taking can be very important. Ideally, the person bringing the animal should be able to answer questions about the animal’s care and lifestyle.

Level 1- Obvious Emergency/Life Threatening

*Life-threatening conditions*

• Cardiopulmonary arrest
• Cyanosis/Severe respiratory distress
• Collapse/Unresponsive
• GDV (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus)/Dog with unproductive vomiting or abdominal distention
• Profuse blood loss
• Penetrating wound
• Severe trauma
• Heatstroke
• Shock

Level 2- Strong Potential for Emergency

*Conditions that will likely become life-threatening without treatment*

• Difficulty breathing/Wheezing
• Allergic reactions
• Smoke inhalation
• Trouble walking or moving, neurologic problems
• Paralysis of hind limbs or all limbs
  • Trauma: Large laceration; Hit by car; Puncture wound to head, neck, chest, or abdomen
  • Electrocution
  • Snakebite
  • Eye injury
  • A diabetic
  • A puppy that is lethargic or not eating
  • Dystocia/active labor
  • Ingestion of toxic substance or foreign body
  • Severe pain

Non-Emergent Triage

These situations are usually stable and present with minor complaints however animals are experiencing some type of pain and/or distress. There is still a problem that needs to be fixed. It is important to use low-stress handling techniques for animals. Safely obtain whatever vitals you are able and advise the veterinarian of the situation. Vitals can be obtained at the same time as the vet’s exam to reduce stress.

When to Get to the Vet in an Emergency

Table Reference: Triage and assessment of the emergency patient – WSAVA 2017 Congress – Vin. Powered By VIN. (n.d.). Retrieved January 15, 2023, from https://www.vin.com/apputil/content