What is the importance of the triage process in the ED flow?

The triage process in the emergency department is crucial for categorizing patients based on the severity of their symptoms. This systematic assessment allows healthcare providers to identify who requires immediate attention and prioritize care accordingly. Triage ensures that patients with life-threatening conditions are seen first, effectively managing the flow of patients and resources in the ED. By evaluating vital signs, presenting complaints, and clinical urgency, triage plays a key role in optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing wait times for those in critical need of care. This prioritization is essential in high-volume settings where resources may be limited, ensuring that the most urgent cases receive timely intervention.