Following a mass casualty incident, a triage nurse assigns a black tag (expectant) to a victim with an open head injury and agonal respirations. The victim's spouse demands to know why immediate life-saving care is not being provided. Which of the following is the most appropriate response by the nurse to explain the ethical rationale for this decision?
- "In a disaster situation, we must allocate our limited medical resources to provide the greatest good for the greatest number of survivors."Answer
- B"Our standard protocol requires us to prioritize and treat any client with a breathing problem immediately."
- C"I know this is terrifying, but please do not worry; a surgical team will be here soon to evaluate and treat your spouse."
- D"I am going to instruct our assistive personnel to continuously assess your spouse's breathing while I help others."
Answer
The most appropriate response is to explain that in a disaster situation, limited medical resources must be allocated to provide the greatest good for the greatest number of survivors.
The correct response reflects the ethical framework of utilitarianism, which is the fundamental basis of mass casualty triage. In disasters where resources are severely limited, the ethical duty shifts from individual beneficence (doing everything possible for one specific person) to justice (allocating resources to do the greatest good for the greatest number of people).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Disaster Triage and Utilitarian Ethics