This hands-on workshop is tailored to advanced rescuers looking to integrate real-world considerations into their training and test themselves with realistic scenarios. Through thoughtful discussion, pertinent case studies, and interactive practice, we explore a variety of high-angle patient access, care and evacuation challenges.

Unlike typical rope rescue training with its emphasis on only the technical aspects of access and egress, this course also gives time to patient assessment, medical interventions and packaging methods. To provide a more authentic experience, field scenarios incorporate these real-world considerations and trade-offs. We use experienced SAR personnel as live patients during rescue scenarios who can deliver detailed feedback and assessment of the care they received.

The week starts with a fast-paced review of hands-on skills and core concepts. Each day, the class combines demonstrations and discussions along with field exercises and realistic team-based scenarios. Students are challenged daily to find the ideal balance between team leadership, rope rescue and patient care.  

This course is designed with low student-to-instructor ratios that allow for ample individual practice, targeted feedback and personal development. Ultimately, this seminar is unique in its ability to present and practice multiple required skills needed to execute an efficient rescue operation in technical terrain.  The amount and types of patient care are tailored to the austere setting of technical rescue and extended transport times.

Past participants report that the guided progression increases their individual rescuer skill sets and sets them up for success as team leaders who must manage competing tasks during evacuation to definitive care.

• a critical thinking approach to effective leadership, size-up, teamwork, and putting it all together in a technical rescue as it pertains to patient care and evacuation
• finding balance in efficiently meshing the medical aspects of patient care and the movement of the patient in technical terrain
• the importance of exemplary patient assessment skills for the medical/rescuer
• patient care considerations in a variety of scenarios in the difficult terrain environment
• patient securing and packaging considerations in a variety of settings and scenarios
• efficient use of medical /rescue equipment and personnel in a given technical rescue
• recognition of what interventions “really make a difference” for most patients in difficult terrain rescues
• stretcher orientation and attending considerations
• medical kits / new equipment
• BLS/ALS considerations and limitations in technical rescue
• pain management and medication delivery options
• safely improvising and adapting in patient care and rescue
• a reinforcement of safe, timely and efficient rope rescue techniques and principles utilized in moving the patient in both steep and high angle settings
• safe helicopter interface

The above list is not exhaustive, nor is it a checklist. One of the hallmark traits of a Rigging for Rescue program is the flexible curriculum. Specific techniques & topics covered are influenced by the overall participant mix and their interests. Each Rigging for Rescue seminar or workshop is a custom experience. All field training scenarios will be in and around Ouray, Colorado.

Finding Balance: Integrating Team Leadership & Patient Care PPE check-list:

Please make sure each participant comes prepared with:

• Food/hydration for the day
• Appropriate clothing/footwear
• Notepad/pen

Required Personal Gear (Assume 1 of every item, unless stated otherwise)

• Helmet
• Harness
• Leather Gloves (1 pair)
• Backpack
• Personal Decent Control Device (ATC, Grigri or equivalent)
• Locking carabiners (4-6)
• Non-locking carabiners (3-4)
• Sewn Runners (120 cm, 2)
• Prusik (VT Prusik 8mm or equivalent)
• Personal Anchor System
• 6mm cord (10 meters)
• 8mm cord (10 meters)
• 25mm webbing (5 meters)
• Pulley (Mini prusik minding pulley, 1-2)
• Knife
• First aid kit

We want to see what you use, how and why. We are looking for the best possible way to rig and conduct rescue.  Printed materials, video clips of trainings, and favorite rescue books are all welcome additions to the seminar. Active participation is the best way to foster a rich and rewarding learning environment.

Finding Balance – Patient Care in Technical Rescue is 5 full days (45+ hours) and runs from 08:00 Monday to approximately 17:00 Friday. Each participant is responsible for their own transportation, personal equipment, food, and accommodation.

Fees: $1,575 US. A deposit of $450 US is required upon registration with final payment due two months prior to the workshop start date.