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Medical Student
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
Ivan Yue, MS4
Medical Student
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
AAEM/RSA Publications and Social Media Committee
Alexander Li, MS4
Medical Student
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
Introduction
Avalanches are among the most feared events to occur in mountainous areas. Although the morbidity and mortality statistics are underreported worldwide, in North America and Europe combined there are roughly 140 avalanche-related deaths per year.[1,2] The majority of victims include snowboarders, skiers, mountaineers, and snowmobilers. With more people seeking to participate in snow sports or explore the mountains as part of expeditions, preparing to treat avalanche-related injuries is essential for an emergency physician working or traveling near a mountainous area. This article details the resuscitation guidelines that physicians can implement for those who fall victim to an avalanche as well as recommendations for mitigating avalanche exposure risk.
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
Ivan Yue, MS4
Medical Student
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
AAEM/RSA Publications and Social Media Committee
Alexander Li, MS4
Medical Student
Uniformed Services University F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine
Introduction
Avalanches are among the most feared events to occur in mountainous areas. Although the morbidity and mortality statistics are underreported worldwide, in North America and Europe combined there are roughly 140 avalanche-related deaths per year.[1,2] The majority of victims include snowboarders, skiers, mountaineers, and snowmobilers. With more people seeking to participate in snow sports or explore the mountains as part of expeditions, preparing to treat avalanche-related injuries is essential for an emergency physician working or traveling near a mountainous area. This article details the resuscitation guidelines that physicians can implement for those who fall victim to an avalanche as well as recommendations for mitigating avalanche exposure risk.
