Everything Cave Rescue

This presentation explores the unique and challenging subspecialty of underground medicine and cave rescue. Attendees will gain essential knowledge about the cave environment, common caving injuries, and the massive logistical difficulties of providing prehospital care and prolonged evacuation in austere, subterranean settings. The presentation will contrast cave rescue with wilderness medicine, highlighting the specialized equipment, communication strategies, and medical kits required for these extended operations. The presentation emphasizes recognizing the often-underestimated dangers of caving and learning crucial preventative steps. Attendees will be equipped with actionable information on austere prehospital management and the critical importance of a "sign out" safety protocol, which they can take back to their departments to enhance their understanding of prolonged and remote cave rescue environments.