Wilderness Medicine (Hypothermia, Dehydration, and Ankle Injury): A Pediatric Simulation Case for Medical Trainees

Wilderness recreation is increasingly popular among people of all ages. Pediatric providers should have the skills to counsel on risk reduction and respond to medical emergencies in remote settings. However, few physicians receive training in wilderness medicine, and this simulation-based curriculum aims to address that gap.

The scenario features an adolescent male in a remote setting with hypothermia, dehydration, and an ankle injury. The simulation is not resource intensive, utilizing a simulated patient actor and minimal equipment. The case includes a case description, learning objectives, instructor notes, example of ideal scenario flow, and anticipated management mistakes. A didactic PowerPoint highlighting the learning objectives is included.

The simulation was carried out over 1 year in various settings, including urban parks, the wilderness, and the classroom, with 35 medical trainees. Thirty participants (11 medical students, eight residents, and 11 fellows) completed postsimulation surveys; more than 86% gave the highest score of 5 (strongly agree) when asked if the simulation improved their understanding of managing hypothermia, dehydration, and ankle injury in the wilderness.

This simulation case trains responders to recognize an injured hiker; activate the emergency response system; initiate appropriate treatment for hypothermia, dehydration, and an ankle injury; and stabilize for transport. It reinforces medical conditions unique to the wilderness, improvisation in managing medical issues outside of the usual health care environment, and teamwork/communication skills. This case has been found to be an effective learning tool for medical students, residents, and fellow physicians alike.