7/11/09

Heylo!

Well today was relaxing. We woke up around 8:30 and had some breakfast, and then had first aid class at 10:30. It was over by 11:45, so we planned to meet to go ice climbing after. I got packed up, but as I was packing noticed my right knee was in a lot of pain, so I decided to stay behind and rest it before our 6.5 mile hike tomorrow.

I did some yoga and took out the maps, and planned out a potential student expedition route. We’ll vote on whose route to take, but I like mine because it looks like an easy and beautiful 27 miles, with the potential for 2 peak climbs!

Next I read some more of Alaska, then took a nap. It was nice. Once my tent mates got back, we made potatoes with broccoli and cheese sauce, and mac & cheese for dinner. I also made a loaf of cornbread as a snack for my tent mates and I to eat while we hike tomorrow, and then we came in the tent and played cards.

Pretty much it was an uneventful day, but I liked the break. It gave me time to go over maps more closely and take in the mountains. Also I’ve decided I like rock camping even more than snow camping. Everything stays dry, and the rocks make warm napping spots in the afternoon!

Ok time for bed! I’ll write from the airstrip with tired legs tomorrow!

~Fia

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NOTES (7/11/09)

Shock & Awe

Shock = inadequate diffusion of oxygenated blood to the body & brain

Treat every patient as a shock patient in the backcountry.

Signs/Symptoms

• Looks/feels sick
• LOR – anxious, restless or disoriented
• HR – Rapid, weak, thready
• RR – Rapid and shallow
• SCTM – pale, cold, clammy

Treatment

• Treat early
• Warmth – dry clothes and sleeping bag
• Create a calm environment
• If the head is pale, elevate the tail (at least 12 in)
• Monitor vital signs

Threats to life – ABC’s, Bleeding, CSM

Break/Fracture

• Therma-rest and clothing make a good cast
• Check CSM every hour

Dislocation

• Sling & swath

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