What does the term "IDME" stand for in triage?

The term "IDME" in the context of triage refers to a system used for prioritizing patient care based on the severity of their injuries and the urgency of their medical needs. The core components of "IDME" stand for Immediate, Delayed, Minimal, and Expectant.

Immediate indicates patients who require immediate attention to survive; these are typically the most critically injured individuals whose conditions are time-sensitive. Delayed refers to patients who also need care but can wait a longer time without jeopardizing their chances of survival. Minimal designates those with minor injuries who can be treated later, and Expectant refers to patients who are unlikely to survive given the severity of their injuries and the limited resources available; they are usually not prioritized for transport or extensive medical intervention.

This triage system is crucial in emergency situations, especially during mass casualty incidents, as it helps healthcare providers make quick and informed decisions about where to allocate resources for the best overall outcome.