Street Triage
The following is a prioritization process to determine triage of patients seen in the field. Consider several factors and the severity of the emergency to determine what action should be taken: 1) vital signs; 2) patient interview; 3) medical history; 4) physical exam; 5) observed behavior; 6) cognitive function; and 7) grave disability assessment.
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Level I: Emergency call 911 |
Vital signs and exam indicate the need to call an ambulance for the patient. |
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Level II: Urgent Drive to ER |
Patient has concerning vital signs and/or symptoms, and the patient can be driven to the emergency room by the Street Medicine Team. |
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Level III: |
Patient cannot meet “basic needs of food and shelter” and is considered gravely disabled; OR patient is posing risk of harm to self or others. |
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Level IV: Office Visit Today |
Patient can be seen at the clinic the same day. |
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Level V: Street/Field visit |
Patient can be treated in the field, with follow-up occurring in the clinic or in the field. |
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Level VI: Engagement only |
Trust-building conversations are had to lead to future engagement and treatment. |
Street triage prioritization process. Created by Coley King, Deborah Maddis, and Carrie Kowalski.