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Avalanche burial with severe hypoxia — DipIMC MCQ

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HardResuscitationAvalanche burial with severe hypoxiaDipIMC

A 25-year-old skier is recovered after a witnessed avalanche burial of 18 minutes. He is unconscious, has a pulse of 44/min, core temperature 30°C, SpO2 82% after airway opening, and the helicopter crew can reach a trauma centre with rewarming capability in 22 minutes. What is the most appropriate transport decision?

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Correct answer: B — Rapid transfer with oxygenation, gentle handling and hypothermia precautions

He is severely hypothermic and hypoxic but has a pulse, so oxygenation, insulation, gentle handling and prompt transfer are required. Bradycardia may be physiological in hypothermia and does not mandate atropine. Prolonged scene rewarming delays definitive care and increases exposure.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; Resuscitation Council UK Special circumstances 2025