APPLICATION OF THE START PROTOCOL FOR TRIAGE IN MULTIPLE-CASUALTY INCIDENTS

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the implementation of the START protocol for victim triage in multiple-casualty incidents, highlighting the method's importance for nursing team operations and the organization of care workflows in the pre-hospital setting. It is a narrative literature review based on seven scientific studies published between 2012 and 2026, selected from the Google Scholar, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), and Virtual Health Library (BVS) databases. The results demonstrate that the protocol contributes to rapid triage, the rational use of available resources, the determination of care priorities, and improved organization of care delivery, while underscoring the need for ongoing education and continuous training for professionals to ensure its correct application. The study concludes that the START protocol is an indispensable tool for enhancing care during multiple-casualty events, fostering safer, more efficient, and organized care based on rapid decision-making.