Medicine for Mountaineering & Wilderness Activities is an essential backcountry medical guide that provides expert information on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, medications, medical kits, and legal and ethical considerations. Compiled by highly recognized medical professionals, this book is a comprehensive resource for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of wilderness first aid and medical procedures.
- Easy-to-understand and accurate information suitable for non-medical professionals.
- New chapters on avalanche injuries, drowning, eye disorders, medical evacuations, and lightning.
- Well-organized content with clear writing and top-notch editing.
- Valuable tips for gear, medications, and alternative uses.
- Useful for wilderness first aid courses and as a tool for medics and special forces soldiers.
Cons:
- Deletion of dosing information for most drugs in the Medications Appendix, limiting its completeness as a single-volume reference.
- Lack of diagnostic and treatment algorithm charts for rapid utilization in the field.
- Some advanced techniques, such as suturing, may not be necessary for the layperson and could be filtered out for relevance.
Overall, Medicine for Mountaineering & Wilderness Activities is a highly recommended book for anyone involved in outdoor activities. It offers straightforward information on general and specific first aid, injuries, symptoms, and preparation. While it may not be suitable for beginners without medical knowledge, it serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking to enhance their wilderness medical skills. Whether you’re a day-tripper, a prepper, or an avid backpacker, this book could be the difference-maker in a critical situation. It’s a must-have for anyone venturing into the backcountry.