Avalanche Rescue Series: Post Avalanche Patient Care

In part five of our Companion Rescue Series, BCA ambassador and American Avalanche Institute (AAI) co-owner Sarah Carpenter illustrates the key points if you need to administer first aid to an avalanche victim. Check the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation; stabilize the spine, if necessary; decide if you need to evacuate the avalanche victim, and protect them from exposure. Be prepared to treat the most common injuries that occur when someone gets buried in an avalanche.
This is not a substitute for an avalanche class. Get educated before heading into the winter backcountry.
For more educational resources, backcountryaccess.com/en-us/l...

[@lukasschreiber5759]

I loved this video! It gives a pretty good overview of what to think of during post rescue care. As a former EMT, I take issue with two details, though. Generally in first aid, people are not advised anymore to feel the pulse. This is because laypersons have a pretty hard time doing it and I think when you have cold fingers after an avalanche rescue, it's even harder. Usually you'd just assume that if the patient is breathing, there's circulation and if he doesn't, there's not. Second, when you talk about moving the patient in minute 4:00, you should reiterate that it's important to protect the spine (and any other fractures) when moving. Please add annotations to your video if you agree.

[@fabadventuresandfirstaidtr4486]

Superb - clear concise and well delivered by a competent and authentic instructor - many thanks!

[@craigbosko2229]

EXCELLENT VIDEO, SOMETHING TO LOOK UP TO AS FAR AS INSPIRING,JOB WELL DONE,VERY IMPRESSIVE,WOW!

[@rogerrabbit6522]

Good to get the message across that basic first aid applies to the avalanche victim and not just other situations but you missed one massive point at the beginning, and one that continues especially in this case throughout, Hazzard, making sure it's safe for you to be there.

[@benjamindbailey]

She covers scene safety in a previous video before they search for the patient.

[@JorgeGonzalez-jh1rh]

Thanks for the video, they are really great :D In 2:05 don't you have to slice your hands behind the patient instead of moving him?

[@kymsartorius3207]

He’s dead meat

[@craigbosko2229]

BAD ATTITUDE