What is the term used to describe the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition?

The term that describes the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition is triage. Triage is a critical practice in emergency medicine and disaster situations where healthcare providers must quickly assess patients to determine the urgency of their medical needs. This ensures that those who require immediate attention receive it first, which can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.

Triage is essential in environments where resources are limited and many patients may arrive simultaneously, such as in emergency rooms or in disaster contexts. It involves categorizing patients into different priority levels, which allows healthcare teams to allocate their time and resources effectively.

In contrast, assessment refers more broadly to the systematic evaluation of a patient’s condition, while diagnosis involves identifying a specific illness or condition based on signs and symptoms. Evaluation generally encompasses a wider review of a patient's health and condition, focusing on the effectiveness of treatment or interventions rather than prioritizing care.