Wilderness Medicine Podcast

Join medical doctor Esteban A. Valle and experts Andrew P. Cobourn, Spencer JH. Trivitt, Jordy Hendrikx, and Jerry D. Johnson as they dive into the world of backcountry skiing and avalanche safety amid the pandemic. They discuss the challenges faced by novice skiers and the increasing avalanche risks. The conversation shifts to toxinology, unpacking snake bites and the complexities of venom. Listeners will learn about the myths surrounding Amanita mushrooms and the importance of timely medical intervention for venom-related emergencies.

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.

Isla McKerrow Johnson and Joseph Shatzel, co-authors of groundbreaking research on travel-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE), share insights on the risks of long-distance travel and tips for prevention, including the use of compression stockings. Sven Olson, Tovah Kohl, Andrew Hamilton, and Thomas G. DeLoughery delve into how telemedicine is revolutionizing wilderness healthcare, discussing tech's role in enhancing safety and accessibility in remote settings. Chris Davis emphasizes the balance between technology and the wilderness experience, highlighting innovations like drones in healthcare delivery.

Dive into the world of wilderness medicine with thrilling discussions on the latest clinical guidelines for anaphylaxis treatment. Discover the challenges of managing allergic reactions in remote settings and the critical role of timely epinephrine administration. Explore the practical use of space blankets at high altitudes and innovative reflective foils for insulation. Celebrate the Full Circle Everest Expedition, highlighting the importance of representation and mentorship in climbing as they blaze trails for underrepresented communities.

Benjamin Ho, an emergency physician and expert on tick-borne illnesses, leads a fascinating discussion on the rising threats of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases in the Midwest. He emphasizes the importance of awareness, effective prevention strategies, and the need for informed public health approaches. Insights on tick prevention—like using permethrin and the history of the Lyme disease vaccine—are explored. The evolving landscape of wilderness medicine is also examined, showcasing its increasing importance within emergency medical services.

Taylor A. Docter, an emergency medicine resident known for his research on stingray barb detection, joins Christanne Coffey, an emergency physician and diving medicine expert. They dive into the dangers of stingray encounters and share innovative strategies to prevent injuries. The duo discusses a pivotal study comparing imaging techniques for detecting embedded stingray barbs, revealing x-ray's superior sensitivity. They also address drowning prevention and the vital role of immediate response, making this a must-listen for ocean adventurers!

Volker Schöffl, a world expert on climbing injuries and author, dives into the critical nature of finger flexor pulley injuries in rock climbers. He shares anecdotes reflecting on how climbing culture has evolved, emphasizing injury awareness and safety. The discussion highlights the benefits of indoor climbing gyms and the significance of comprehensive training for injury prevention. Schöffl also explores nutrition's role in athlete recovery, balancing supplementation with a sound diet. This engaging conversation is a treasure trove for climbing enthusiasts!

Jake N. McRae, a fourth-year medical student and drone expert, shares insights on how drones are transforming search and rescue operations, focusing on their ability to enhance communication in wilderness settings. Mike Lauria, an emergency medicine resident with military experience, discusses vital stress management techniques for high-pressure medical situations, emphasizing teamwork and decision-making under stress. Together, they highlight innovative strategies and regulatory considerations essential for effective emergency responses.

In this engaging discussion, Linda Keyes, the current president of the Wilderness Medical Society, emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion within wilderness medicine governance. She highlights new initiatives aimed at empowering underrepresented voices. Physician James H. Diaz delves into the alarming rise of tick-borne viral infections, discussing their transmission and potential public health dangers, including the Asian longhorn tick. Their insights shed light on critical issues that affect both practitioners and outdoor adventurers.

September 2020 - Wilderness & Environmental Medicine Live Wilderness & Environmental Medicine journal online: www.wemjournal.org Questions/comments/feedback and/or interest in participating in WEM Live? Send an email to: wemlive@wms.org Part 1 Article Review Title: Visitor Incidents in Western Australian Protected Areas, 2011–2017 Author: Anna Maria Gstaettner DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wem.2020.05.006 CME Available: https://www.wms.org/members Presenter: Anna Maria Gstaettner Reviewer: Darryl Macias Part 2 Darryl chats with longtime WMS member and fellow WEM section editor Ken Zafren on life, sunscreen, and COVID.