Chemical inhalation triage — DipIMC MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental MedicineChemical inhalation triageDipIMC

At a factory ammonia leak, a non-walking adult casualty is breathing at 32/min and coughing after exposure. No catastrophic bleeding is present. What is the triage category?

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Correct answer: E — Priority 1 (red)

In MITT, a non-walking adult with a respiratory rate outside the normal range is P1. Chemical exposure also creates scene safety and decontamination issues, but the triage category reflects immediate physiological compromise. P2 would under-triage the respiratory threat. The pearl is that contaminated casualties may need both triage priority and contamination control.

Reference: NHS England MITT 2023; JRCALC Guidelines 2025; JESIP