Ep. 11 - After the Avalanche with Michael Buchanan
Nov 17, 2023
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In this engaging discussion, Michael Buchanan, a flight paramedic and founder of Mountain Medical Academy, delves into the nuances of caring for avalanche victims. He sheds light on essential first aid techniques, like effective airway clearance and CPR protocols specific to avalanche situations. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of psychological care for rescuers and survivors alike. Buchanan also shares valuable tips on survival gear and the significance of mental resilience in backcountry emergencies, ensuring outdoor enthusiasts are well-prepared.
Michael Buchanan emphasizes the need for lay rescuers to be equipped with essential medical know-how for effective avalanche victim care.
The podcast highlights the critical importance of immediate airway management and distinct CPR protocols specific to avalanche rescues.
After the Avalanche initiative addresses the psychological support necessary for rescuers and victims' families, recognizing trauma's emotional impact after rescues.
Deep dives
Mission of Mountain Medical Academy
Mountain Medical Academy is dedicated to offering evidence-based wilderness medicine education, with a particular focus on avalanche first aid courses. The academy aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to better respond to avalanche emergencies. This includes training on the care of patients extracted from avalanche burials, recognizing that many people, including medical professionals, may lack adequate knowledge in this area. The upcoming avalanche first aid course is set to begin in December and will emphasize practical skills for real-world situations.
Understanding Avalanche Risks
Statistics indicate that around 25% of avalanche fatalities result from trauma, while the rest are primarily due to asphyxiation or hypothermia. With the increasing popularity of backcountry skiing and snowboarding, there has been a heightened emphasis on avalanche safety education. However, many avalanche education programs often overlook the critical aspect of medical care post-burial. As such, raising awareness about the importance of knowing companion rescue techniques and first aid in the wilderness is a vital focus for Mountain Medical Academy.
Initial Response to Avalanche Victims
In an avalanche rescue scenario, immediate actions are crucial to increase the chances of survival. The initial focus should be on rapidly accessing the victim's airway and providing rescue breaths if necessary, distinguishing this from typical CPR protocols. The significance of prevention and proper equipment, such as wearing helmets and carrying avalanche airbags, is emphasized to mitigate risks of injury. Furthermore, it's essential to conduct a thorough assessment for trauma after reviving the airway and ensuring that the victim is breathing.
Challenges in Avalanche Medical Education
Despite the urgent need for medical training in avalanche situations, traditional avalanche education often fails to include medical care education. Professionals in avalanche response are typically experts in snow science and risk assessment rather than medical personnel. This gap poses a significant concern, as many individuals involved in rescue efforts do not possess adequate training about potential medical emergencies following an avalanche. Mountain Medical Academy seeks to bridge this gap by incorporating medical training directly into avalanche education, enhancing overall safety for backcountry enthusiasts.
Broader Implications and Future Goals
After the Avalanche is an initiative that aims to raise awareness about post-rescue mental health and psychological support for rescuers and victims' families. It recognizes the importance of addressing the psychological trauma that can arise from participating in rescue operations. By incorporating educational videos and resources, the initiative strives to promote psychological first aid alongside physical rescue skills. This holistic approach helps ensure individuals are not only prepared for rescue scenarios but also equipped to handle the emotional aftermath of such traumatic events.
Episode 11 brings you my conversation with Michael Buchanan is a flight paramedic and senior firefighter / paramedic at the West Valley City Fire Department. He is the founder and operation of Mountain Medical Academy, a passion-driven backcountry medical care education company. We discuss the medical care of avalanche victims which Michael has made accessible to recreational skiers and riders who don't have a medical background.
Other topics that we discuss include: -Finger sweeps to clear the airway -How the presence of an air pocket changes your medical care -How long to perform CPR after an avalanche -What equipment may be useful to a lay rescuer -The importance of psychological care after a critical event And more.
Below are links to things discussed in this podcast: