Explore every episode of the podcast Wilderness Medicine Updates
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep. 31: Hypothermia Basics | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:49:34 | |
In this episode, Dr. Patrick Fink reviews accidental hypothermia for wilderness providers, building on Ep. 27 Thermoregulation, explaining physiologic changes as core temperature falls and why accurate core temperatures are difficult to obtain in the field. We learn the modified Swiss staging system (0–4) based on signs and symptoms and outlines field management: - 0 cold stress (shelter, dry/insulate, warm calories; avoid alcohol), - 1 mild hypothermia (ataxia/fine motor impairment; passive plus active external rewarming with a hypothermia wrap and heat near axilla/groin; frequent reassessment), - 2 moderate hypothermia (confusion/lethargy; active external rewarming, evaluate hypoglycemia, gentle handling and no exertion to avoid afterdrop, cardiac monitoring, expedite evacuation), - 3 severe hypothermia (unresponsive with vital signs; airway/ventilation support, extremely gentle transport) - 4 hypothermic cardiac arrest (60-second pulse check, CPR, limited shocks under 30°C, withhold epinephrine/amiodarone under 30°C, consider intermittent CPR per protocol, and note potassium’s role in termination decisions). We also briefly contrasts slow non-extracorporeal warming with ECMO/cardiopulmonary bypass, previewing a future episode on advanced care and the HOPE score Links WMS 2019 Accidental Hypothermia Guideline European Resuscitation Council Hypothermia Algorithm Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and Overview As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 30 - Rethinking Spinal Immobilization: EMS Evidence Update | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:22:53 | |
Reevaluating Spinal Motion Restriction: Evidence Update In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Dr. Patrick Fink delves into the evolving guidelines and practices concerning spinal motion restriction. Drawing from historical dogma and modern research, Patrick explores the inefficacies and potential harms of traditional spinal immobilization tools like rigid spine boards and cervical collars. Instead, he advocates for more flexible, evidence-based approaches such as using well-padded surfaces and coaching patients to minimize their own motion. Key points from a comprehensive literature review by the National Association of EMS Physicians and other authoritative bodies are discussed, highlighting the shift from immobilization to motion restriction and its practical implications. Listeners are urged to stay updated with current evidence and consult medical directors before altering their practices. Links Ep. 14 - Spinal Immobilization Guidelines Update 2018 ACEP/NAEMSP Sminal Motion Restriction Position Statement
00:00 Introduction to Wilderness Medicine Updates 00:42 Historical Perspective on Spinal Immobilization 01:44 Transition to Spinal Motion Restriction 03:30 Review of Recent Literature 05:40 Key Findings on Spinal Motion and Neurological Outcomes 09:30 Effectiveness of Backboards and Cervical Collars 12:10 Potential Harms of Immobilization Tools 16:38 Practical Recommendations and Future Directions 21:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 22 - Moose Mutlow: Yosemite Swiftwater SAR, Family Liaison Officer, and longevity in rescue. | 22 Apr 2025 | 01:28:50 | |
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink interviews Moose Mutlow, an experienced outdoor educator and search and rescue professional with nearly four decades of experience globally. Moose discusses his extensive career from being an Outward Bound instructor to working with Yosemite Search and Rescue, and his role as a Family Liaison Officer for the National Park Service. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by search and rescue teams, the importance of robust communication skills, and how to build resilience against trauma in high-stress professions. Moose also shares his personal experiences, reflecting on the value of mentorship, the significance of team dynamics, and the essential need for compassionate support during crises. The episode includes practical advice for those in the field of wilderness medicine and search and rescue, highlighting the necessity of emotional balance and continuous learning. Connect with Moose: Did you enjoy this episode? Contribute to YOSAR! Links from the show: More Reading: CHAPTERS As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 21 - Snow Immersion Suffocation | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:23:36 | |
In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked but deadly hazards in deep powder skiing: snow immersion suffocation (NARSID). Unlike avalanches, snow immersion deaths happen silently—often within feet of a groomed run—when skiers and snowboarders fall into deep snow or tree wells and become trapped. We explore the research behind these incidents, where and how they occur, who is most at risk, and the tragic mechanics of asphyxiation in deep snow. Using studies from Van Tilburg, Baugher, and Cadman, we break down ra eal survival story, discuss prevention strategies, and how both bystanders and professional rescuers should respond. Whether you’re a backcountry adventurer, resort skier, or ski patroller, this episode will change the way you think about deep snow safety. Stay aware, ski with a partner, and stay out of tree wells. Must Watch: GoPro Awards: Tree Well Rescue Citations Baugher, P. (2006). Risk trends at U.S. and British Columbia ski areas: An evaluation of the risk of snow immersion versus avalanche burials. In Proceedings of the 2006 International Snow Science Workshop (pp. 584–591). International Snow Science Workshop. Cadman, R. (1999). Eight nonavalanche snow-immersion deaths: A 6-year series from British Columbia ski areas. The Physician and Sportsmedicine, 27(13), 31–43. Van Tilburg, C. (2010). Non–avalanche-related snow immersion deaths: Tree well and deep snow immersion asphyxiation. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 21(3), 257–261. Van Tilburg, C. S., Grissom, C. K., Zafren, K., McIntosh, S. E., Radwin, M. I., Paal, P., et al. (2017). Wilderness Medical Society practice guidelines for the prevention and management of avalanche and non-avalanche snow burial accidents. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 28(1), 23–42. Chapters As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 20 - Out of Hospital Airway Adjuncts: King Tube vs LMA | 14 Mar 2025 | 00:27:27 | |
King Tube vs IGEL for Airway Management In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, Dr. Patrick Fink addresses a listener's question on whether to use a King Tube or an IGEL as an out-of-hospital airway adjunct. The episode begins with an overview of airway management techniques from mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to supraglottic airway devices. Dr. Fink explains the benefits and drawbacks of various airway adjuncts, including oral and nasal pharyngeal airways. The discussion then shifts to a detailed comparative analysis of King Tubes and IGELs based on retrospective and prospective studies. Dr. Fink evaluates the evidence indicating that IGEL may be more effective and easier to use than King Tubes, particularly in pre-hospital cardiac arrest situations. The episode concludes with recommendations for pre-hospital providers and an encouragement for listeners to share their questions and feedback. Links: Smida T, Menegazzi J, Scheidler J, et al. A retrospective comparison of the King Laryngeal Tube and iGel supraglottic airway devices: A study for the CARES surveillance group. Resuscitation. 2023;188:109812. doi:10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109812 Smida, Tanner & Menegazzi, James & Crowe, Remle & Scheidler, James & Salcido, David & Bardes, James. (2023). A Retrospective Nationwide Comparison of the iGel and King Laryngeal Tube Supraglottic Airways for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation. Prehospital emergency care. 28. 1-13. 10.1080/10903127.2023.2169422. Lønvik, M.P., Elden, O.E., Lunde, M.J. et al. A prospective observational study comparing two supraglottic airway devices in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. BMC Emerg Med 21, 51 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12873-021-00444-0 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Listener Question 00:55 Understanding Airway Adjuncts 02:12 Basic Airway Management Techniques 06:34 Advanced Airway Devices: King Tube and LMA 11:35 Comparative Studies on Airway Devices 17:35 Prospective Data and Final Thoughts 25:24 Conclusion and Listener Engagement As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 19 - Methoxyflurane, the Green Whistle, with Dr. Ross Hofmeyr | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:45:28 | |
Exploring Methoxyfluorane for Wilderness Pain Management with Dr. Ross Hofmeyr In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Dr. Patrick Fink discusses the use of methoxyfluorane, an anesthetic gas for pain management in wilderness settings. Joined by guest Dr. Ross Hofmeyr, an anesthesiologist and wilderness medicine expert from South Africa, the episode delves into the history, usage, benefits, and limitations of methoxyfluorane. Highlighting its efficacy, ease of use, and safety, especially for pre-hospital scenarios, Dr. Hofmeyr shares insights into its ideal applications, contraindications, and personal experiences. The episode underscores the significance of methoxyfluorane as a potent analgesic suitable for acute traumatic pain and procedural analgesia in austere environments. Links Methoxyflurane at Altitude - Case Report Methoxyflurane in the Outback - Survivor Clip WMS Pain Management Guidelines Chapters: As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 18 - Ketamine for Wilderness Pain Management with Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg | 12 Jan 2025 | 00:45:33 | |
Ketamine Use in Wilderness Pain Management: An Interview with Dr. Chris Van Tilburg As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 17 - Resuscitation of the Buried Avalanche Victim, Part 2: The Rescue Algorithm | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:42:23 | |
In episode 17 of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink delves into the ICAR resuscitation algorithm for buried avalanche victims. The episode reviews the physiology of avalanche burial and discusses critical determinants of survival, such as duration of burial, airway patency, signs of life, and lethal injuries. The Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) algorithms are explained in detail, with a focus on the practical application for both amateur and professional rescuers. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 16 - Medications for Alpine Hut Trips | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:17:10 | |
In this episode, I share an intense story of dealing with a suprise medical condition during a backcountry hut trip in Colorado. I walk through the diagnostic process, treatment options, and the importance of preparation for stays in remote places. Essential medications and tools needed for handling such emergencies in remote settings are discussed, along with advice on how to prepare for future expeditions. My articles on The-High-Route.com 01:31 The Backcountry Hut Trip Begins 03:19 Will's Health Deteriorates 04:38 Diagnosing the Problem 07:04 The Emergency Descent 09:16 Lessons Learned and Preparedness 10:37 Essential Medications for Wilderness Trips 16:19 Final Thoughts and Conclusion As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 15 - Airway Patency in Avalanche Victims | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:10:35 | |
This episode, I look at a study from the Eurac research group on rates of airway occlusion in critically buried avalanche victims. Eurac looked at this critical feature of avalanche resuscitation triage as it both affects the way we treat buried avalanche victims, and it helps us to better understand whether technologies like the black diamond Avalung (retired) and the Safeback SBX can help us survive longer under the snow if buried. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 14 - Spinal Immobilization Guidelines Update | 07 Aug 2024 | 00:13:35 | |
Today, we discuss updates in the WMS guidelines regarding the protection of patients with suspected spinal injuries.
As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 13 - The High Route: Arguments for Avalanche Airbags | 03 Apr 2024 | 00:48:51 | |
This episode is a repost of an interview that was first posted on The High Route Podcast. Hosted by the editor of The-High-Route.com, Jason Albert, we discuss my background in wilderness medicine, and then move on to discuss the research that support my argument and assertion that the avalanche airbag backpack should be standard equipment for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers, and anyone who regularly works or recreates in avalanche terrain. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 29 - Wilderness Orthopedics with Dr. Chris Healy | 18 Jan 2026 | 01:18:11 | |
Wilderness Orthopedics: Managing Trauma in Remote Environments with Dr. Chris Healy In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Dr. Patrick Fink tackles orthopedic injuries in the wilderness with Dr. Chris Healy, an orthopedic surgeon and outdoor enthusiast. They explore the management of long bone fractures, traction for femur, pelvic binders, and the nuances of treating injuries in limited-resource environments. The episode covers strategies for handling common injuries like shoulder dislocations, tibia fractures, knee injuries, and how to prioritize care. They also emphasize the importance of timely evacuation and when and how to safely attempt reductions in the field. Links: Donate to the Tina Biddle Memorial Scholarship Sulcus sign / Squaring of the shoulder Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 12 - Resuscitation of the Buried Avalanche Victim, Part 1: Physiology | 26 Jan 2024 | 00:18:36 | |
This is part 1 of a multi-part series on the resuscitation of critically buried avalanche victims. In this episode we learn the physiology that we need to understand the resuscitation algorithm. To learn the necessary biology, we follow a rider as they are carried in an avalanche, subjected to traumatic injury, and are then buried and begin to asphyxiate and cool. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 11 - After the Avalanche with Michael Buchanan | 17 Nov 2023 | 00:53:38 | |
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. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 10 - Tourniquets from Space Blankets | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:06:56 | |
In this episode, I discuss the article "Arterial Occlusion Effectiveness of Space Blanket-Improvised Tourniquets for the Remote Setting". In this short blast I get into the meat of this article, and though the authors would tell you that space blankets aren't ready for primetime, I have some thoughts on the matter. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 9 - FEMA Urban Search and Rescue with Dr Graham Brant-Zawadzki | 11 Oct 2023 | 00:33:18 | |
In this episode Dr BZ is back to talk about his experience deploying with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Urban Search and Rescue Task Force (USAR). Dr BZ just returned from a deployment with FEMA USAR to Lahaina, HI, where he served as a team physician supporting rescue and recovery efforts there. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 8 - SAR Provider Injuries & Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment | 28 Jul 2023 | 00:15:59 | |
In this two-part episode, I review an article from the Annals of Emergency Medicine "Occupational Accidents Among Search and Rescue Providers During Mountain Rescue Operations and Training Events" As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Fast Push #2.2 - Safety Third | 13 Jul 2023 | 00:08:33 | |
In this second Fast Push, you get a riff on a great article from JEMS entitled "Safety is Third, Not First, and We All Know It Should Be" by Christopher Davis MD et al. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 7 - Wildfire Smoke and Your Health | 24 May 2023 | 00:26:09 | |
In this episode I go deep on the health effects of wildfire smoke, answering some key questions that are relevant to recreational athletes, outdoors professionals, wildland firefighters, and industrial athletes alike: As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 6 - EMS at the Wilderness Boundary with Dr. Graham Brant-Zawadzki | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:49:21 | |
In this inaugural interview episode I have the pleasure of grilling Dr. Brant-Zawadzki about operating an urban EMS system at a wilderness boundary. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 5 - Mechanical CPR for Ski Patrol and Mountain Rescue | 12 Mar 2023 | 00:17:55 | |
In this episode we review the available evidence, and the pros and cons, of using mechanical CPR devices like the LUCAS or Autopulse for ski patrol and mountain rescue applications. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 4 - HOPE Score for Severe Hypothermia | 23 Feb 2023 | 00:22:27 | |
In this episode we discuss the HOPE score, a tool that improves our ability to select the severely hypothermic patients who can benefit from warming with extracorporeal life support (ECLS). As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 28 - Laura McGladrey, Responder Alliance, and Stress Injury: How to Get Back to Green and Save Living While Saving Lives. | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:59:33 | |
Understanding Stress Injuries in First Line Responders with Laura McGladrey This episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink, features a conversation with Laura McGladrey, founder of the Responder Alliance. They discuss the critical issue of stress injuries among first line responders, including professional ski patrollers, healthcare workers, and rescue team members. Through personal stories and expert insights, Laura explains the concept of stress injuries, how they develop, and the importance of early detection and mitigation. The episode highlights the need for both individual and organizational strategies to support resilience and manage stress. Listeners are introduced to practical tools, cultural shifts, and personal anecdotes to help maintain a long, healthy, and fulfilling career in high-stress environments. Links Responder Alliance Home Page Responder Alliance: Resource Hub The Stress Continuum Scholarships: Responder Alliance Foundation Make a Donation to Responder Alliance Foundation! Chapters As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Fast Push #1 - Beacon Interference | 09 Feb 2023 | 00:08:22 | |
For today, a new format, the Fast Push: Quick updates that you need to know sooner rather than later. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 3 - Methoxyflurane for Prehospital Analgesia | 07 Feb 2023 | 00:15:07 | |
Methoxyflurane: inhaled gas of the past and prehospital analgesic of the future? Only if we’re talking about ‘the future’ in North America. Used in Australian EMS for almost half a century, this safe and effective medication is only now starting to get the attention that it deserves outside of the down-under. Today’s paper: Trimmel, H., Egger, A., Doppler, R. et al. Usability and effectiveness of inhaled methoxyflurane for prehospital analgesia - a prospective, observational study. BMC Emerg Med 22, 8 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12873-021-00565-6 As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 2 - Pain Management for Scorpion Stings | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:10:43 | |
Today we look at IV acetaminophen vs IV NSAID vs topical lidocaine vs placebo for treatment of pain due to scorpion stings, with some bonus learning on tramadol. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 1 - Fentanyl on the Ski Hill? | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:15:21 | |
Is intranasal fentanyl safe and effective for the treatment of acute severe pain on the ski hill? Lynch TV, Callas PW, Peterson TD, Schlein SM. Intranasal Fentanyl for On-the-Hill Analgesia by Ski Patrol. Wilderness Environ Med. 2022 Sep;33(3):296-303. doi: 10.1016/j.wem.2022.05.003. Epub 2022 Jul 16. PMID: 35851192. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep.0 - An Introduction | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:03:31 | |
Welcome to Wilderness Medicine Updates! As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 27 - Thermoregulation: The Physics and Physiology of Body Temperature Regulation | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:32:00 | |
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink delves into the topic of thermoregulation, explaining how our bodies regulate temperature in response to environmental changes. Listeners will learn about methods of heat exchange (conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation), how to measure core temperature, and the body's physiological responses—such as shivering, sweating, and blood flow control. The episode also touches on the effects of age, metabolic stressors, and pregnancy on thermoregulation, as well as the importance of understanding these principles in the context of treating conditions like hypothermia and heat-related illnesses. As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Fast Push #3: Safeback SBX for Avalanche Asphyxia Prevention | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:17:59 | |
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink delves into groundbreaking technology designed to improve safety during avalanche events. The focus is on SafeBack SBX, a Norwegian-developed device that supplies air to users buried in avalanches, potentially extending survival time. Patrick reviews new research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, which demonstrates significant efficacy in delaying hypoxia during simulated avalanche burials. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of SafeBack SBX, its mechanisms, study results, and its comparative and complementary role alongside existing safety technologies like airbags. Concluding with potential applications and limitations, Patrick aids listeners in deciding whether SafeBack SBX is a worthy addition to their avalanche safety gear. Links Eisendle F, Roveri G, Rauch S, et al. Respiratory Gas Shifts to Delay Asphyxiation in Critical Avalanche Burial: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. Published online October 08, 2025. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.16837 Articles I've written about Safeback: Avalanche Safety: Assessing the Safeback SBX System First Look: Safeback SBX Avalanche Safety System Chapters As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 26 - Physical Training for Mountain Rescue Professionals with Rob Shaul of Mountain Tactical Institute | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:47:54 | |
On this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink shifts focus from the science and literature of wilderness medicine to practical fitness tips for search and rescue personnel, ski patrollers, and outdoor rescuers. Patrick interviews Rob Shaw, founder and head coach of the Mountain Tactical Institute, about his specialized training programs for various types of mountain athletes, including those in industrial and tactical roles. They discuss the nuances of preparing for seasonal work, the distinct fitness demands of ski patrollers versus search and rescue members, and the importance of chassis integrity and mental fitness. Rob highlights minimal equipment training plans that can be effective for mountain professionals and recreational athletes alike, and offers a special discount for the show's listeners. Additional topics covered include Rob's nutritional recommendations and the concept of the 'quiet professional,' someone deeply committed to the craft of their work. Offer Are you involved in mountain or wilderness rescue? Rob is offering the first 50 listeners who reach out to him a 20% discount on a training plan. Send your rescue or professional credentials to rob@mtntactical.com to secure your discount. Links Training Plans Patrick Likes: Mountain Base Fitness Greek Heroine Series Backcountry Ski Preseason Training Plan Exercises Discussed: Rob's Resources: Ideal bodyweights for mountain athletes Mountain/Wilderness SAR Fitness Assessment Training Plan Resilience vs. Discipline vs. Perseverance: Why the Distinctions Matter in Mental Fitness The 8 Core Attributes of Mental Fitness Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wilderness Medicine As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 25 - Tree Well Burial Study / Wilderness Med Careers AMA with Zack Majd | 08 Sep 2025 | 01:01:23 | |
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, host Patrick Fink breaks down a recent research paper on the differences between simulated avalanche burial and tree well burial, analyzing the findings and their implications for skiers and outdoor rescue personnel. We then transition to a special Q&A session with pre-med student Zack Majd, tackling questions about forming a career in wilderness medicine. Patrick discusses the necessary educational paths, the benefits and limitations of fellowships, and the essentials of wilderness medical training. Additionally, the episode highlights upcoming educational events and provides practical advice on wilderness medical gear, psychological support techniques, and the integration of wilderness medicine with other medical disciplines. A must-listen for anyone interested in advancing their career in the field of wilderness medicine. Links: Kanaan NC, Abdul Cader J, Krakker J, Beasley H, Grissom CK, McIntosh SE. Simulated Avalanche vs Tree-Well Burial Effects on Human Physiology. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. 2025;36(3):361-367. doi:10.1177/10806032251337476 Van Tilburg C, Paal P, Strapazzon G, et al. Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents: 2024 Update. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. 2023;35(1_suppl):20S-44S. doi:10.1016/j.wem.2023.05.014 Fink PB, Wheeler AR, Smith WR, et al. Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Acute Pain in Austere Environments: 2024 Update. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. 2024;35(2):198-218. doi:10.1177/10806032241248422 EP. 21 - Snow Immersion Suffocation Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:43 Upcoming Events in Wilderness Medicine Part 1 02:07 Tree Well Burials vs. Avalanche Burials 05:36 Study Findings and Analysis 08:23 Limitations and Implications of the Study Part 2 11:21 Q&A: Careers in Wilderness Medicine 12:48 Zach's Journey and Career Questions 20:35 Balancing Wilderness Medicine with Other Careers 26:05 Pathways to Wilderness Medicine 30:32 Debating the Value of Wilderness Medicine Fellowships 32:21 Personal Experience with Wilderness Medicine Fellowship 34:29 Research in Wilderness Medicine 37:05 Essential EMS Gear for Wildland Firefighters 39:19 Prioritizing Care in Wilderness Settings 47:31 Psychological First Aid in Wilderness Medicine 50:49 Preparing for Wilderness Medicine Challenges 53:55 Future of Wilderness Medicine 57:33 Signoff As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 24 - Airway Management in Austere Environments with Dr. Nicholas Weinberg | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:46:15 | |
In this episode of Wilderness Medicine Updates, Dr. Patrick Fink discusses airway management in austere situations with Dr. Nicholas Weinberg. They explore two cases published in the Wilderness Medicine Journal, detailing the decision-making processes in managing critically injured patients. Dr. Weinberg shares his background in emergency and wilderness medicine, and highlights the importance of flexibility and the application of basic life support techniques in the wilderness. The episode emphasizes the significance of understanding the limitations and capabilities of the available tools in wilderness settings. Links Photo: Ledge from the fallen climber Photo: Himalayan clinic resuscitation Connect with Dr Weinberg: Nicholas.E.Weinberg@hitchcock.org Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:26 Meet Dr. Nicholas Weinberg 01:48 Dr. Weinberg's Background and Career 03:55 Case Introduction: The Climbing Accident 05:38 On-Scene Response and Initial Assessment 08:11 Airway Management and Rescue Coordination 11:05 Patient's Condition and Medical Interventions 18:34 Patient's Recovery and Conclusion 21:01 Reflecting on a Remarkable Case 21:30 Discussing the Second Case 22:59 Experiences in Wilderness Medicine 25:24 Challenges and Strategies in Remote Medical Care 30:31 Managing Airway in Austere Environments 37:42 Advice for Aspiring Wilderness Physicians 42:24 Concluding Thoughts and Listener Shoutouts As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||
| Ep. 23 - Inhaled Xenon Gas for Altitude Adaptation | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:19:34 | |
Exploring Xenon Gas for Altitude Acclimatization and Sport Performance Join us on social! Chapters As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM. You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here. | |||