In Kern County Protocols, what mechanism is used for triaging patients during mass casualty incidents?

The START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) system is specifically designed to quickly assess and categorize patients during mass casualty incidents, allowing for efficient allocation of limited medical resources. This method enables first responders to evaluate patients based on their breathing, circulation, and mental status, facilitating immediate decision-making regarding treatment priority.

By using the START system, responders can effectively classify patients into four categories: immediate, delayed, minor, and deceased. This triage process ensures that those who require urgent medical attention receive it as quickly as possible while also maintaining organization during chaotic situations. The simplicity and effectiveness of the START system make it a widely adopted protocol in various emergency response situations, particularly during large-scale disasters.

The other options, while they may pertain to different aspects of patient care or evacuation, are not standardized or widely recognized triage systems for mass casualty scenarios in the same way that START is. Therefore, START is the correct answer for triaging patients in these critical situations.