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Ten Second Triage walking casualty — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateMajor Incident ManagementTen Second Triage walking casualtyDIPIMCDipIMC

During the initial sorting of casualties at a major incident, you apply the Ten Second Triage tool. One adult casualty is walking around the scene, following instructions and talking normally. Which priority category does this most likely indicate under the tool?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Priority 3 (delayed)

Under the Ten Second Triage tool, an adult who is walking and able to follow instructions is most consistent with Priority 3 (delayed), allowing responders to concentrate first on those unable to walk. A walking casualty is unlikely to be Priority 1 or 2 at the first sort, though every casualty is reassessed as resources allow. The dead and expectant categories do not apply to a walking, talking patient. Pearl: the ability to walk is a rapid early discriminator but does not replace later structured reassessment.

Reference: NHS England Major Incident Triage Tools (Ten Second Triage)