FLOWCHART --

The START flowchart is a quick way to learn the system. As you move through the patient assessment, sequentially evaluate the current status for RESPIRATIONS, PERFUSION, and MENTAL STATUS (RPM). You either assign the victim a classification or you move to the next level of the flowchart.

There are two flowcharts presented. The first shows the details of going through the START assessment. The second is a simplified flowchart. Use whichever one makes the most sense to you.

Detailed flowchart

Simplified flowchart

Detailed Flowchart

[click here for printable version]
NOTE: Must be printed using landscape orientation.

Simplified Flowchart

START Triage Assess, Treat, (use bystanders) When you have a color STOP - TAG - MOVE ON
M I N O R	-- Move Walking Wounded
	D E C E A S E D	-- No RESPIRATIONS after head tilt
		I M M E D I A T E	-- Breathing but UNCONSCIOUS
			-- Respirations - over 30
			-- Perfusion Capillary refill > 2 or NO RADIAL PULSE Control bleeding
			-- Mental Status Unable to follow simple commands
			D E L A Y E D	-- Otherwise
				REMEMBER: Respirations - 30 Perfusion - 2 Mental Status - Can Do

[Download a printable copy that can be printed on a business card]
Microsoft Word 97 Format
Microsoft Word 2000 Format
Microsoft Publisher 97 Format

You can print these files on a color printer to make reference cards of the START triage system. They are built to print on Avery 5371 business card forms. However, differences in printers may necessitate some re-formatting to make the cards print properly.

An alternative is to print the cards on normal, heavy stock paper, and then cut and laminate them.