View source for Solo Medical Emergency Runbook

'''Solo Medical Emergency''' procedures for handling serious illness or injury when working alone in remote locations or field assignments.

== Immediate Assessment (First 5 minutes) ==

=== Self-Evaluation Protocol ===
'''Consciousness and Mobility Check:'''
# Can you think clearly and make rational decisions?
# Can you move without severe pain or risk of further injury?
# Are you experiencing symptoms that require immediate medical attention?
# Do you have adequate shelter and protection from elements?

'''Critical Symptom Recognition:'''
* Chest pain or difficulty breathing
* Loss of consciousness or severe confusion
* Severe bleeding that won't stop with direct pressure
* Suspected spinal injury or head trauma
* Signs of severe allergic reaction

=== Decision Tree ===
* '''Life-threatening symptoms''' → Call 911 immediately, activate emergency location beacon
* '''Serious but stable''' → Implement evacuation protocol, contact emergency contacts
* '''Minor but mobility-limiting''' → Assess ability to self-evacuate vs. need for assistance

== Emergency Response ==

=== Location Broadcasting ===
# Send GPS coordinates to emergency contacts via text/satellite device
# Activate personal locator beacon if available
# Use mapping app to share precise location with 911 dispatcher
# Provide landmarks and access route information for responders

=== Emergency Services Contact ===
'''Information to Provide 911:'''
* Exact location with GPS coordinates and access route details
* Nature of medical emergency and current symptoms
* Your name, age, and relevant medical history
* Equipment you have available and whether you can move
* Weather conditions and any hazards responders should know about

=== Emergency Contact Cascade ===
'''Activation Order:'''
# Emergency contact #1: Notify of situation and location
# Emergency contact #2: Request coordination assistance
# Work contact: Notify of potential story/deadline impacts
# Medical contact: Provide symptom update and medication information

== Self-Care and Stabilization ==

=== First Aid Implementation ===
# Control bleeding with direct pressure and elevation
# Maintain body temperature with available clothing/shelter
# Stay hydrated if conscious and not vomiting
# Position for optimal breathing and circulation
# Avoid unnecessary movement if spinal injury suspected

=== Pain and Symptom Management ===
# Use over-the-counter medications per label instructions
# Apply ice or cold packs to injuries if available
# Elevate injured extremities to reduce swelling
# Practice calming breathing techniques to manage anxiety
# Conserve energy and avoid unnecessary exertion

== Evacuation Procedures ==

=== Self-Evacuation Assessment ===
'''Can Proceed If:'''
* Injury allows safe movement without worsening condition
* You have clear route to safety or medical care
* Weather and terrain conditions are manageable
* You have adequate supplies for evacuation duration

=== Assisted Evacuation ===
# Remain in place if movement could worsen injury
# Make yourself visible to responders (bright clothing, signal devices)
# Prepare medical history summary for responders
# Organize equipment for potential overnight wait

== Equipment and Information Management ==

=== Medical Information Preparation ===
* Current medications and dosages
* Known allergies and adverse reactions
* Recent medical procedures or ongoing conditions
* Emergency contact information and medical power of attorney

=== Equipment Security ===
# Secure sensitive work materials if possible
# Create equipment inventory for insurance purposes if gear is abandoned
# Leave equipment in visible location for later recovery
# Remove only essential items that can be safely carried

== Work Continuity ==

=== Professional Notification ===
# Contact editors/clients with realistic timeline for story completion
# Provide handoff information if work must be transferred
# Arrange for colleague to cover time-sensitive assignments
# Document completed work and outstanding requirements

=== Story Protection ===
# Upload completed work to cloud storage if possible
# Send draft materials to trusted colleague for safekeeping
# Protect source confidentiality if story involves sensitive information
# Maintain professional obligations while prioritizing health

== Prevention and Preparation ==

=== Pre-Trip Medical Planning ===
* Inform trusted contacts of planned route and check-in schedule
* Carry adequate first aid supplies for anticipated risks
* Maintain current medical information summary in easily accessible format
* Research medical facilities and emergency services along planned route

=== Communication Redundancy ===
* Carry multiple communication devices (cell, satellite, radio)
* Pre-program emergency contacts into all devices
* Test communication devices before departing for remote locations
* Establish check-in schedule with emergency contacts

== Recovery and Follow-Up ==

=== Medical Care Coordination ===
* Follow up with healthcare providers for ongoing treatment
* Document incident details while memory is fresh
* Review effectiveness of emergency response procedures
* Update medical information and emergency plans based on experience

=== Work Resumption ===
* Gradual return to field work based on medical clearance
* Update risk assessment procedures for similar assignments
* Brief colleagues on lessons learned from incident
* Modify equipment and preparation based on identified gaps

== Categories ==

[[Category:Medical Emergency]]
[[Category:Solo Operations]]
[[Category:Field Safety]]
[[Category:Runbooks]]