Civilian Medical Podcast 078 – Off Grid Emergencies

Welcome to the Civilian Medical Podcast episode 078   Opening Brief scenario: "You’re 3miles from the nearest road when your buddy collapses…" Purpose: Why every outdoorsman should be ready for medical emergencies Understanding the Off-Grid Medical Reality EMS might be 30+ minutes to several hours away No cell service, limited supplies Weather concerns Importance of self-reliance and scene control Right gear, right training Medical Emergencies Off-Grid Walk through common emergencies using simple terms and practical examples: Bleeding & Trauma (gunshots, falls, knife injuries) Broken Bones & Sprains (tree stand falls, uneven ground) Hypothermia & Heat Stroke (seasonal threats) Chest Pain / Cardiac Arrest Allergic Reactions (bee stings, food, meds) First-Line Response Principles What to do in the first 10 minutes: Scene safety and patient assessment (basic AVPU, ABCs) "MARCH" acronym in trauma care stands for Massive Hemorrhage, Airway, Respirations, Circulation, and Hypothermia/Head injuryWhen and how to move someone vs. stay put Basic splinting) once life threats have been addressed What to Carry: The Essential Off-Grid First Aid Kit Tourniquet (TQ) — and why it's a must-have Hemostatic gauze CPR mask or face shield Epinephrine auto-injector (if allergic) Chest seals (for hunters) Emergency blanket, SAM splint, gloves, duct tape, fire starter How to improvise with what you already have You can build your own or start with a base kit and customize: Skinny Medic Essentials Kit – includes trauma gear, NPA, gloves, and more I-ROK Rugged Outdoor Kit – waterproof, includes burn gel, CPR mask, antiseptics 1 Condor Small First Aid Kit – compact, includes basics for everyday use   Emergency Communication & Rescue Tips Satellite phones messengers Leave a trip plan: when and where you’re going, when you’ll return Training Resources & Next Steps Wilderness First Aid (WFA) vs. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) NOLS classes Encourage listeners to practice basic skills like applying a tourniquet   Plan for August         Meteorologist     Ultimate Summer First Aid Kit Checklist  Trauma & Bleeding Control CAT or SOF-T Tourniquet – for life-threatening limb bleeds QuikClot Combat Gauze – hemostatic agent for deep wounds Israeli or OLAES Pressure Bandage – versatile for bleeding and splinting Chest Seals (HyFin Vent) – for open chest injuries (e.g., punctures)  Airway & Breathing Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) – maintain airway in unconscious individuals CPR Face Shield or Pocket Mask – safe rescue breathing Burns, Bites & Environmental Burn Gel or Burn Dressings – for sunburns, campfire burns, etc. Sting Relief Wipes or Bite Treatment Packets – for insect bites and stings Electrolyte Tablets – prevent dehydration in hot weather Emergency Mylar Blanket – for shock or sudden weather changes Basic Wound Care Adhesive Bandages (variety pack) – for cuts, scrapes, blisters Sterile Gauze Pads & Rolls – for wound dressing and cleaning Antiseptic Wipes & Antibiotic Ointment – infection prevention Medical Tape – secure dressings Tweezers – remove splinters or ticks  Tools & PPE Trauma Shears – cut clothing or gear Nitrile Gloves – protect both patient and responder Triangle Bandage – sling or wrap Elastic Bandage (ACE wrap) – for sprains or compression  Medications (OTC) Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen – pain and inflammation Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) – allergic reactions Anti-diarrheal (Loperamide) – travel-related stomach issues  Recommended Kits to Start With You can build your own or start with a base kit and customize: Skinny Medic Essentials Kit – includes trauma gear, NPA, gloves, and more