During a large-scale terrorist incident, what is crucial for the EMT to remember?

Using triage and base patient care on available resources is crucial during a large-scale terrorist incident because the situation typically involves a higher number of casualties than available medical resources. Triage allows EMTs to assess patients quickly and prioritize care based on the severity of their injuries and the urgency of their medical needs. This systematic approach ensures that those who are most critically injured receive attention first, maximizing the chances of survival across the larger group.

In such incidents, not all patients can be treated immediately due to limited resources—both in terms of personnel and medical supplies. Therefore, the ability to adapt treatment based on what is available not only provides effective care to those who need it most urgently but also optimizes the care delivered to all patients in a challenging environment.

The other options, while potentially relevant in different contexts, do not emphasize the critical need for systematic assessment and resource allocation that triage provides.