💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

During a mass casualty incident, a nurse is assigned to the triage area. Which patient would the nurse prioritize for immediate treatment using the START method?

A A patient with a fractured arm and minor abrasions.
B A patient who is unconscious, apneic, and has no pulse.
C A patient with rapid, shallow breathing and capillary refill greater than 2 seconds.
D A patient with a laceration to the leg that is not actively bleeding.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Rapid, shallow breathing and prolonged capillary refill indicate compromised circulation/respiration, triaging as 'immediate' (Red tag). Apneic and pulseless is 'expectant' (Black tag). Fractures and minor lacerations are 'delayed' or 'minor'.

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