Dr. Russ Reinbolt, an ultramarathon runner and ER doctor, shares insights on wilderness medicine and endurance challenges. He discusses the innovative use of intranasal fentanyl for pain management in ski patrol rescues. The conversation then dives into his experiences with shark encounters, highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness for divers. Reinbolt also opens up about training in extreme heat and strategies for balancing hydration and electrolytes during intense races, making for a thrilling blend of medical expertise and adventurous tales.
Intranasal fentanyl has proven to be a safer and more effective pain management option for EMTs on ski hills, minimizing risks associated with traditional methods.
The tiger shark attack case study illustrated the unpredictability of shark behavior and emphasized the need for effective emergency response strategies for divers.
Preparation for extreme endurance events like the Badwater Ultra Marathon requires a balance of physical training, heat acclimatization, and proper nutrition to ensure athlete safety.
Deep dives
Intranasal Fentanyl for Pain Management
Intranasal fentanyl has emerged as a viable option for managing pain on ski hills, particularly for EMT basics who previously had limited pain control capabilities. The study conducted at Taos Ski Valley enabled EMTs to administer intranasal fentanyl after receiving special skills training from the New Mexico EMS Bureau. This method is non-invasive and reduces risks associated with needle stick injuries, making it suitable for high-stress environments like ski patrol. The study documented significant decreases in pain scores for patients, demonstrating both the effectiveness and safety of this approach.
Challenges of Traditional Pain Management
Traditional pain management methods on ski resorts present numerous challenges, particularly when using intramuscular morphine. The process of administering morphine involves complexities such as needle stick risks and exposure to harsh conditions, which can exacerbate patient discomfort, especially in cold weather. At Taos, morphine's usage was infrequent, typically requiring a paramedic's presence, which was not always available. These challenges prompted a shift towards the more effective and safer administration of intranasal fentanyl, allowing for immediate relief while minimizing complications.
Shark Attack Case Study in New Caledonia
A case study focused on a tiger shark attack on a scuba diver in New Caledonia highlighted the unpredictable nature of such incidents. The shark attack occurred in clear waters during the day, challenging common beliefs that attacks typically happen in murky waters or at dawn and dusk. The diver's positioning away from the coral wall and into open water might have contributed to this unprovoked attack, showcasing that even seemingly safe conditions can pose risks. Such notable events emphasize the importance of studying shark behavior and preventive measures for divers.
Role of First Aid and Rapid Response
In the aftermath of shark attacks, rapid response and effective first aid are critical for patient survival and recovery. Emergency response involves quick communication to medical services and immediate first aid to control bleeding and manage the patient's condition promptly. In the case discussed, although tourniquets are not standard equipment for dive companies, having VHF radios is crucial for timely notifications to emergency medical services. The victim was successfully transported to receive essential treatment within an hour, underscoring the significance of prompt medical attention in traumatic scenarios.
Endurance Training Insights from Badwater Ultra Marathon
The preparation for extreme endurance events like the Badwater Ultra Marathon requires a multifaceted training approach, combining heat acclimatization, electrolyte management, and physical conditioning. Athletes often utilize saunas to acclimate to the extreme temperatures of up to 127 degrees Fahrenheit experienced during the race. Nutrition plays a vital role, with runners requiring substantial sodium intake to prevent hyponatremia, especially in extreme conditions where they lose significant fluid through sweat. The experiences shared during the podcast reveal that mental fortitude, strategic planning, and efficient resource management are essential components for successfully completing such grueling races.
Sept 2022
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: Intranasal Fentanyl for On-the-Hill Analgesia by Ski Patrol
Authors: Tierra V. Lynch, BA; Peter W. Callas, PhD; Timothy D. Peterson, MD; Sarah M. Schlein, MD
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wem.2022.05.003
CME Available: https://wms.org/members
Part 2: Author interview
Darryl interviews Dr. Claude Maillaud about the current WEM article, Tiger Shark Attack on a Scuba Diver in New Caledonia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wem.2022.04.003
Part 3: Dr. Russ Reinbolt interviewed by Dr. Nicholas Weiss
https://www.ultramarathondoc.com/
Audio editing: Tom Conklin (https://www.tomconklinvoice.com)
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