How is a patient categorized as black in the START process?

In the Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment (START) method, a patient categorized as black indicates that they are either deceased or have no signs of circulation, which generally means they are not going to survive even with immediate medical intervention. This classification helps prioritizing care and resources in mass casualty situations, where rapid and efficient triage is critical for the survival of those who can be saved.

Categorization into black emphasizes the need for first responders to make quick decisions about who can benefit from treatment versus those who are beyond help. Recognizing the absence of circulation is crucial, as it signifies a lack of blood flow necessary for maintaining life.

The other categories address patients who may still have a chance of survival and require varying levels of urgency in treatment, further underscoring the necessity of the black designation for directing resources appropriately.