During a mass casualty incident, which method is used to categorize patients?

The triage system is the correct method used to categorize patients during a mass casualty incident. This system is essential in emergency management, especially when resources are limited and there are numerous patients requiring care.

Triage allows responders to prioritize treatment based on the severity of a patient's condition. It involves evaluating patients quickly to determine their need for immediate medical attention versus those who can wait. The primary goal is to maximize survival rates by ensuring that those who are in critical conditions receive care first, while also managing the overall response to the incident effectively.

Utilizing a structured triage approach ensures that responders can manage patient flow, allocate resources efficiently, and maintain organization during chaotic situations. This method is crucial for any medical emergency response team, as it directly impacts outcomes and resource optimization.