Triaging multiple victims in an avalanche setting: the Avalanche Survival Optimizing Rescue Triage algorithmic...

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Wilderness Medicine
• Disaster Management

Background:

• Increasing winter backcountry activities lead to a rise in avalanche incidents.
• Mass casualty avalanches present complex challenges, often exceeding available medical and rescue resources.
• Current patient care guidelines for avalanche victims are limited to basic first aid, lacking specific triage protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of specific triage systems for avalanche-related mass casualty incidents.
• To develop a systematic approach for prioritizing care and making disposition decisions for multiple avalanche victims.
• To optimize survival outcomes in avalanche rescue scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Avalanche Survival Optimizing Rescue Triage (ASORT) algorithm.
• Designed in conjunction with an electronic avalanche rescue training module by the Canadian Avalanche Association.
• Focuses on optimizing triage and disposition decisions for multiple victims.

Main Results:

• The ASORT algorithm provides a structured approach to managing multiple avalanche victims.
• Aims to improve decision-making in high-stress, resource-limited field environments.
• Facilitates optimized patient care and resource allocation during avalanche rescues.

Conclusions:

• The ASORT algorithm offers a novel solution for triaging multiple avalanche victims.
• Addresses a critical gap in current avalanche rescue medical protocols.
• Aims to enhance survival rates and improve patient outcomes in avalanche mass casualty incidents.