Viral Syndrome Pandemic
Triage Protocol
EFFECTIVE March 17, 2020 until rescinded or superceded For Use By BLS and ALS Clinicians
YES NO
Patient age is between 2 and 55 years
Patient has a suspected viral syndrome with at least two (2) of the following symptoms: fever, cough, body aches, or sore throat
Patient has a history of immunosuppression, or is taking medicines that depress the immune system (cancer undergoing chemotherapy, transplant patient, HIV, etc.)
Patient has a history of diabetes
Patient has a history of heart disease
Patient has a history of COPD or lung disease
Patient has a heart rate between : 50 – 110 bpm (age 13-55 years);
(age 2-5 years: 80-140 bpm; age 6-12 years: 70-120 bpm)
Patient has a systolic blood pressure between: 110-180 mmHg (age 13-55 years); (age 2-5 years: > 80mmHg; age 6-12 years: > 90mmHg)
Oxygen saturation (SpO2) greater than or equal to 94%
Clear lung sounds
Respiratory rate between 12 – 22 breaths per minute, and the patient does not complain of shortness of breath
Patient is able to ambulate without difficulty
Patient is agreeable to home self-care
ANY CHECKS in a shaded box indicate that patient transport should be encouraged.
If ALL CHECKS are in non–shaded boxes, patient may provide self–care at home. Refer to no–transport instructions for patients.
Any patient may be transported at the EMS Clinician’s discretion.
This emergency protocol was issued by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems, after approval by the Executive Director and Chairman of the State Emergency Medical Services Board, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and in accordance with Education Article Section 13-516(d)(1) and COMAR 30.03.05.02(I) and a catastrophic health emergency proclamation.