North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam 2025 - Free EMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

In a mass casualty incident (MCI), the primary goal of triage is to efficiently allocate medical resources to the greatest number of patients in need. The approach of sorting patients without beginning treatment is fundamental because it allows responders to quickly assess the severity of injuries and prioritize care based on the urgency of need. This method is consistent with triage protocols, such as the START system (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment), which categorizes patients based on their ability to walk, respiratory status, and perfusion.

By sorting patients first, responders can identify those who require immediate care versus those who can wait or may not survive despite immediate intervention. This process ensures that those with life-threatening injuries receive prioritized attention rather than those who could benefit from treatment but are less critical. In this way, the overall outcome for the group can be maximized, mitigating the loss of life in a chaotic environment where resources are stretched thin.