It is critical for backcountry travelers to have the ability to handle dangerous situations when they occur. This includes a logical, commonsense approach to injury and illness that takes into account the unique aspects of the wilderness setting. This comprehensive reference book, based on the Wilderness Medical Associates curriculum, clearly explains essential diagnostics and first aid procedures necessary for wilderness injuries, including general principles in wilderness medicine; basic life support; medical supplies; wilderness travel; and the newest first aid methods for outdoor situations. It is an essential reference for anyone headed into the great outdoors.
Author(s): Jeffrey Isaac
Series: Outward Bound
Edition: 4
Publisher: Falcon Guides
Year: 2013
Language: English
Tags: Sports & Recreation; Outdoor Skills; Health & Fitness; First Aid
Acknowledgments ix
About Outward Bound xi
Introduction xv
Section I An Approach to Medical Problems
1 General Principles of Wilderness Medicine 3
2 The Patient Assessment System 12
Section II Basic Life Support and the Critical Body Systems
3 Basic Life Support 24
4 The Circulatory System 31
5 The Respiratory System 39
6 The Nervous System 51
7 Allergy and Anaphylaxis 62
8 Severe Asthma 66
9 Diabetes and Low Blood Sugar 69
Section III Trauma
10 The Musculoskeletal System 72
11 Skin and Soft Tissue 101
Section IV Environmental Medicine
12 Toxins 118
13 Thermoregulation 132
14 Cold Injury 146
15 Submersion Injury 151
16 Altitude Illness 154
17 Lightning Injury 159
18 Avalanche Rescue 163
19 Arthropod Disease Vectors 165
Section V Backcountry Medicine
20 A General Approach to Illness 170
21 Abdominal Pain 172
22 Chest Pain 176
23 Diarrhea 179
24 Constipation 181
25 Nausea and Vomiting 183
26 Ear and Sinus Problems 185
27 Nosebleed 188
28 Genitourinary Problems 190
29 Respiratory Infection 195
30 Dental Problems 197
31 Eye Problems 200
Section VI Medicine and Medical Supplies
32 Pain and Pain Medication 204
33 Antiseptics and Antibiotics 207
34 Medical Kits 209
Section VII Wilderness Travel
35 Preparation for Wilderness Emergencies 216
36 Rescue and Evacuation 218
Appendix
Water Treatment 220
Glossary
Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Mnemonics 221
General Glossary 224
Index 232
About the Author 240
