In disaster triage, which principle guides prioritizing care?

In disaster triage, which principle guides prioritizing care?

• A. First-come, first-served
• B. Individual rights
• C. Longest expected survival
• D. Greatest good for the greatest number

Answer: (D)

In disaster triage, the aim is to save as many lives as possible when resources are limited. The principle guiding prioritization is greatest good for the greatest number, a utilitarian approach that directs care to those who can benefit most and whose treatment will free up resources to help more people. This means focusing on patients who have the best chance of survival with the resources available and can be treated quickly, so overall the number of lives saved is maximized. While prognosis and resource intensity influence decisions, the overarching goal remains maximizing survivors rather than treating everyone in a strict order or preserving individual rights in the moment.

In disaster triage, the aim is to save as many lives as possible when resources are limited. The principle guiding prioritization is greatest good for the greatest number, a utilitarian approach that directs care to those who can benefit most and whose treatment will free up resources to help more people. This means focusing on patients who have the best chance of survival with the resources available and can be treated quickly, so overall the number of lives saved is maximized. While prognosis and resource intensity influence decisions, the overarching goal remains maximizing survivors rather than treating everyone in a strict order or preserving individual rights in the moment.