In triage, what does the color red indicate?

In the context of triage, the color red is used to indicate that a patient is in a critical condition and requires immediate attention. This designation is crucial in emergency medical situations, where resources and time are limited. The red category typically includes patients suffering from life-threatening injuries or medical issues, such as severe bleeding, respiratory distress, or loss of consciousness.

Immediate treatment for these individuals is essential to improve their chances of survival and mitigate further complications. The triage process assists medical personnel in prioritizing care effectively, ensuring that those who are most in need receive attention right away. This is a fundamental principle of emergency response and disaster management, emphasizing the importance of addressing the most critical cases first in order to save lives.