Standardized Comparison of Triage in EMS

The objective of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of acuity estimates by paramedics employing the Canadian Triage Acuity Scale (CTAS) in the out of hospital setting. The study has the potential to help guide policy decisions pertaining to the safe transfer of ambulance patients to alternative destinations reducing ED overcrowding and ambulance off load time. Emergency Department triage nurses employ the same acuity scale and if this study is successful the emergency departments and the EMS services could communicate about capacity to handle patients based on acuity, volumes and waiting times.