Technical recommendations for configuration of a triage area for patients with respiratory symptoms. Draft document, Version 2.3 (5 April 2020)

Abstract

The triage area provides a rapid clinical assessment of patients with respiratory symptoms to detect cases that meet the criteria for hospitalization or referral to a higher-level health facility. Triage of patients with respiratory symptoms is organized in accordance with the needs and context of the health facility, taking into account the actions needed to prevent transmission of the disease among patients, family members, and health workers. A routing system should be set up to ensure that patients are immediately directed to the appropriate destination (hospital admission, outpatient management, transfer, or home), minimizing the risk of transmission.