In triage, which color denotes the first priority?

• A. Yellow
• B. Red
• C. Green
• D. Black

Answer: (B)

In mass‑ casualty triage, colors help quickly signal how urgently someone needs care. The color for immediate priority is red, because it marks patients whose life‑threatening injuries require rapid intervention to prevent death or permanent damage. These are the cases where quick actions—airway management, controlling severe bleeding, or treating shock—can change outcomes.

Yellow denotes those whose injuries are serious but can tolerate a short delay for treatment. Green describes minor injuries—the walking wounded who can wait longer. Black is used for those who are deceased or whose injuries are unsalvageable given the situation.