Wilderness Medicine Podcast

¡Episodio extra en español! Darryl analiza la tormenta de nieve de noviembre de 2025 en el Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile, junto a Marcelo Noria. Crédito musical: “Tren al Sur” de Los Prisioneros

#41: Lessons from the Field and the Literature Wilderness & Environmental Medicine journal online: www.wemjournal.org Questions/comments/feedback and/or interest in participating? Send an email to: WMPodcast@wms.org Part 1: Darryl discusses the current WEM article Acceptance of Risk and Confidence Assessing Avalanche Terrain and Conditions: A Large Cross-Sectional Study through the lens of the current avalanche events. Link to article: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/10806032251368754 Part 2: Journal Club Title: Environmental Exposures and Risks During Pregnancy Article link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/10806032241248626 CME available for WMS members: https://wms.org/WMS/WMS/Journal-Quizzes/CME-Dashboard.aspx?hkey=99763cb0-f207-4ac9-9f5b-0c08e3f65938 Part 3: Discussion with Marcelo Noria regarding the November 2025 blizzard in Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile. Part 4: Update on Mount Aconcagua with Aaron Brillhart. Climber Mortality on Mount Aconcagua, 2013–2024 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/10806032251330534 Audio editing: Tom Conklin (www.tomconklinvoice.com) WMS membership: wms.org/members Music credit: “Tren al Sur” by Los Prisioneros

Dr. Cindy Bitter, an expert in wilderness burn care, discusses critical updates on managing burns in remote settings. She emphasizes cooling strategies and the importance of evacuating in severe cases. Angela Martz, a physician assistant and mountain explorer, tackles women’s health in expeditions, highlighting challenges like menstrual hygiene and the psychological barriers women face in adventure tourism. Their conversation mixes practical advice with insights into fostering inclusivity in outdoor activities.

In this discussion with Dr. Sigurd Miska, a specialist in mountain medicine and accidental hypothermia, the podcast explores the effectiveness of chemical heat blankets in rescue scenarios. Dr. Miska explains the optimal activation timing and how early pre-activation significantly enhances warmth. They delve into the intricacies of prolonged field care, emphasizing critical planning strategies and the ‘Hitman’ mnemonic for efficient emergency management. Insightful case studies illustrate challenges faced during delayed evacuations, offering practical solutions for severe injuries.

Peter Hackett, an expert in high-altitude research from the University of Colorado, and Graham Brantzawadsky, an EMS specialist from the University of Utah, dive deep into the fascinating world of encephalopathy. They discuss the differences between hyponatremic encephalopathy and high-altitude cerebral edema, emphasizing hydration and sodium balance. Case studies highlight the complexities of diagnosing altitude illnesses. They even tackle hydration misconceptions in climbers and the critical need for accurate medical protocols in wilderness medicine.

#37: Climate Change: Recreation at Risk Wilderness & Environmental Medicine journal online: www.wemjournal.org Questions/comments/feedback and/or interest in participating? Send an email to: WMPodcast@wms.org Part 1: Journal Club Title: Climate Change Impact on Outdoor Organizations Today Article link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/10806032241296526 CME Available: wms.org/members Part 2 MythBustsers Hypothermia Lab: Takeaways from participants of the DiMM winter course experiential lab at the UNM. Audio editing: Tom Conklin (www.tomconklinvoice.com)

Dr. Dirk Haslow, a pediatrician and epidemiologist, joins Dr. Nick Weiss from UNM and wilderness medicine fellow Dr. Josh Markham to dive into treestand safety and catfish injuries. They reveal that tree stand injuries surpass projectile injuries among Arkansas hunters, emphasizing critical safety protocols. The trio also shares shocking insights on catfish puncture wounds, discussing both unique medical treatments and unexpected dangers. Funny anecdotes about catfish encounters add a lighthearted touch to their informative discussion.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Mike Green, an expert in emergency medicine and mountain rescue, delves into the complexities of managing mildly hypothermic patients in wilderness settings. He highlights the surprising benefits of ambulating such patients during rescues, redefining traditional protocols. The conversation also covers the innovative use of CPAP masks for improving oxygenation at high altitudes and the vital role of medical directors in search and rescue operations, emphasizing effective communication and continuous education in wilderness practices.

A significant norovirus outbreak among Colorado River rafters and backpackers garnered attention for its impact on public health in the Grand Canyon. The challenges of managing gastrointestinal illnesses in remote areas are explored, emphasizing timely communication and hygiene practices. The podcast shares thrilling details about rafting while highlighting the critical role of water treatment methods in keeping visitors safe. By focusing on preventative measures, listeners learn how guides and outfitters collaborate to mitigate health risks during outdoor adventures.

Darryl, a seasoned expert in wilderness medicine, dives into intriguing discussions about marine envenomation and spinal cord protection. He addresses common myths surrounding jellyfish stings and reveals that hot water is an effective treatment. The conversation also covers the local healthcare response to marine injuries in Okinawa and reassesses traditional cervical spine immobilization practices, advocating for a patient-centric approach. Listeners will gain insights into managing marine bites and the gentle nature of sea snakes.