This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Dr Jørgen Melau. They discuss the intricacies of providing prolonged field care (PFC) in Arctic environments. They emphasise the importance of knowledge over gear, the challenges of managing cold casualties, and the necessity of shelter and improvisation. The discussion also covers protocols for PFC, the difficulties of vapour barriers, transportation strategies, and future developments in Arctic medical care. Dr Melau provides valuable advice for new medics interested in working in cold environments, highlighting the need for comfort and experience in such conditions.

Takeaways

Knowledge is more vital than the actual gear.

Training should focus on the person, not just products.

Shelter is vital for casualty care in the Arctic.

Improvisation can save lives in cold environments.

Condensation is a considerable problem in cold weather operations.

Breathable fabrics could improve vapour barriers.

Keeping hands warm is vital for medics in cold environments.

You must be comfortable in the cold before being a medic.

Training in cold environments is essential for medics.

Human performance is key in prolonged care situations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Arctic Prolonged Field Care

01:10 The Importance of Knowledge Over Gear

07:04 Managing Cold Casualties in the Arctic

11:37 Shelter and Improvisation Techniques

17:00 Protocols for Prolonged Field Care

23:02 Challenges of Vapor Barriers and Heating

30:03 Transportation and Evacuation Strategies

34:48 Future Developments in Arctic PFC

44:58 Advice for New Medics in Cold Environments