Why is it important to get to the proper triage level as quickly as possible?

Patient Safety

When a patient has a symptom, it may be difficult for them to determine on their own how dangerous it is. For example, a headache could be a life-threatening stroke or a simple tension headache. People tend to ignore symptoms because they are busy or do not have easy access to a healthcare professional. However, ignoring these signs can lead to a significant delay in care for severe conditions and worsen the outcomes. In the case of a stroke, every minute lost leads to adverse consequences that may impact the patient for the rest of their life.

Peace of Mind

A patient may have a  symptom they are concerned about but may be on the fence about getting care based on the time of the day, other commitments, or the potential cost. A triage nurse will review the callers’ symptoms, medical history, and concerns. He/she will further assist the patient in coming up with a plan of care that is reassuring and provides an independent opinion. Having access to a triage nurse is crucial when the caller is trying to decide what to do for a sick child or a loved one. Triage nurses are specially trained professionals and use Schmitt-Thompson protocols along with their nursing training to assist in deciding for the appropriate triage level.

Cost-Effective Care

In a healthcare environment where many patients have high deductibles, self-funded companies, and shred risk by health care providers, cost-effective care is more critical than ever. Using the appropriate level of triage care is essential to help with costs since an unneeded ER visit can easily run over $2,000. On the flip side, not being seen and having an adverse outcome can lead to decreased quality of life and cost the health care system hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical care. A triage nurse can determine the appropriate triage level of care to prevent any unnecessary costs for the patient.