WILD- Topic 22: Introduction to Triage

Triage is the art of assigning priority to emergency patients and their problems based on rapid assessment of historical and physical parameters. The triage should take about 5 minutes. The goal is to quickly identify patients with life-threatening problems so they can be treated immediately. If a patient requires immediate evaluation by a veterinarian, verbal permission or signed medical consent should be obtained from the owners that authorizes the appropriate emergency treatment (CPR, IV catheter, medication, radiographs, blood work, etc.) as quickly as possible. Perform a rapid, whole body exam looking for wounds, bruises (petechiae, purpura or ecchymosis), abdominal pain/distention and any other signs of debilitation. Wounds to the thorax or abdomen can be critical even if the patient appears stable on triage. [9]

How to be a Prepared in an Emergency

When handling a medical emergency for 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 pet’s arrival by setting up equipment and medications that will be needed.

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