The Definition of a Triage Nurse

A triage nurse is an important participant in a patient's intake.

The term "triage" was first associated with medical staff assisting wounded soldiers on the battlefield. The triage nurse or unit was responsible for ranking injured soldiers on the basis of medical need. Soldiers were given priority for care or treatment based on the seriousness of their injuries.

Definition

A triage nurse outside of the battle zone is one who is trained in triage procedures.

Basic Duties

Triage nurses are responsible for organizing patients based on the seriousness of their injuries or medical needs.

Setting

Most triage nurses work in a hospital emergency room where they organize patients based on the seriousness of their injuries or illnesses. A triage nurse may also provide patient consultation over the phone. Triage nurses may advise patients as to whether or not to seek immediate care by assessing their symptoms and needs.

Education

Triage nurses are licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). To become an RN, many nurses complete a baccalaureate program.

Necessary Skills

A triage nurse must have strong evaluation skills, be able to make quick judgments and remain calm under pressure, and have good interpersonal and communication skills.

References

• The Free Dictionary: Triage Nurse
• DiscoverNursing: Triage Nursing
• Nurse Week: Telephone Triage Nursing