Wilderness Medicine Updates Ep. 6 - EMS at the Wilderness Boundary with Dr. Graham Brant-Zawadzki
Apr 4, 2023
Dr. Graham Brant-Zawadzki, an emergency physician and medical director with expertise in EMS and wilderness medicine, shares captivating insights from the frontline. He discusses the unique challenges of managing emergency services at the urban-wilderness boundary, including improvisation and collaboration with various agencies. A thrilling avalanche rescue demonstrates the necessity for adaptability in critical situations. Dr. Brant-Zawadzki also highlights potential career paths in wilderness medicine and the importance of networking and professional interactions for future opportunities.
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Transcript
Episode notes
Write Clear Wilderness Protocols
- Create specific wilderness protocols so crews know when flexibility from urban protocols is allowed.
- Tailor those protocols to local call types so providers don't feel they've failed when standard care isn't practical.
Hiker Case Highlights Resource Limits
- A hiker required urgent cardiac monitoring far up a trail and the first responder wished for an AED that wasn't practical to carry on the hike.
- That provider worried about failing the standard of care despite doing their best in a resource-limited setting.
Design Packs With Users And Iterate
- Involve frontline providers when designing wilderness packs and iterate frequently based on real use.
- Strip items to must-haves, prefer multi-use gear, and consider modular packs for different response types.