The Initial Management of Severe Trauma Patients in Mountain Rescue

Abstract

The initial management of severe trauma patients in the mountains is based on extraction from the area and early identification and treatment of life-threatening injury. In this specific environment, the victim is subjected to isolation, harsh weather conditions and altitude hypoxia. Warning times and initiation of patient care are often delayed. There is no room for improvisation and hence the experience of the emergency mountain rescue doctor who intervenes, without paramedics, with specialised equipment has a crucial impact on patient’s prognosis.