In a mass-casualty scenario, what should a nurse do if faced with multiple clients having varying injuries?

In a mass-casualty scenario, the priority is to manage resources and provide care effectively to a large number of individuals. The most effective approach is to categorize clients based on the severity of their injuries and then initiate care according to those categories. This method allows the nurse to quickly and efficiently allocate limited resources, ensuring that those in most critical need receive treatment first.

Using a triage system is essential in such situations, where clients are classified into different levels of urgency. Doing so helps prevent overwhelm and provides a structured way to address the varying needs of multiple patients simultaneously. By prioritizing treatment based on the severity of injuries, the nurse can make informed decisions that maximize the chances of survival and optimize outcomes for the greatest number of clients.

This approach contrasts with other strategies, such as addressing the most grievous injuries without a coordinated system, which could lead to neglecting individuals who may not appear critically injured but could worsen without timely intervention. Additionally, relying solely on vital signs may not fully capture the urgency of treatment needed for certain injuries. Evaluating each client individually without categorization could be time-consuming in a mass-casualty situation, where rapid assessment and response are crucial.