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Emergency Severity Index (ESI)

Emergency Medicine specialty tool

Bedside Tool Interface Configuration

A 5-level emergency department triage algorithm grouping patients by acuity and resource needs.

Algorithm Checklist Parameters:
  • 1. Requires immediate life-saving intervention (CPR, intubation, severe respiratory distress, shock)?
  • 2. Is this high-risk situation, new-onset confusion, or severe distress/pain?
  • 3. How many different resources likely needed (Labs, ECG, IM meds, CT)?
  • 4. Vitals in danger zone (HR >100, RR >24, SpO2 <92% for age)?

Primary Clinical Application:

Standardized ED nursing initial triage and nursing resource allocation.