West Coast EMT Block One Exam

While using the JumpSTART triage system, how should a conscious child with a non-bleeding angulated leg be categorized?

1. Delayed (yellow)

2. Minimal (green)

3. High-flow oxygen and baseline vital signs

4. Quickly bind his legs together

The correct answer is: Delayed (yellow)

In the JumpSTART triage system, patients are categorized based on the severity of their injuries and the urgency of their need for medical attention. A conscious child with a non-bleeding angulated leg is categorized as "Delayed" (yellow). This categorization indicates that while the child is in need of medical care, their injuries are not life-threatening at that moment. The key points of this classification involve assessing both the child’s consciousness and the nature of the injury. Since the child is conscious, it suggests they have a patent airway and adequate breathing, which means they are not in immediate danger. The non-bleeding angulated leg, while significant, does not pose an immediate risk for deterioration compared to more critical conditions that might warrant a "Immediate" (red) classification. People who are categorized as “Delayed” can await medical intervention until those with more severe injuries are treated first. This classification helps prioritize resources efficiently in emergency situations, ensuring that those who need immediate care receive it while still addressing the needs of those with serious but not currently life-threatening conditions.