Hypothermia Frostbite And Other Cold Injuries

The 141-page paperback second edition of Hypothermia Frostbite And Other Cold Injuries, by Gordon Giesbrecht, Ph.D. (“Dr. Popsicle”) and James A. Wilkerson, M.D. is available from The Mountaineers Books for $17.95 U.S. While only in its second edition, this book is likely to become a classic. Written for medical professionals, it is a succinct guide to prevention of and survival from hypothermia, and rescue and treatment of hypothermic victims. The physiology and pathophysiology of hypothermia are very well explained and the information on cold water immersion is particularly comprehensive. As would be expected from the world’s expert on immersion hypothermia, the recommendations for rescue are plentiful and superb. I particularly enjoyed the section on cold weather clothing, which includes useful information in order to understand choices of clothing and how best to prepare for the cold. The discussion on frostbite reflects the fact that we have not seen any real advance in clinical approach for decades now. This will be a useful “refresher” book for knowledgeable medical professionals who wish to be conversant with the most recent accepted approaches to hypothermia, and a very important book for the library of any health care provider who may be called upon to assist in the rescue and treatment of a hypothermic human being.

Tags: hypothermia, frostbite, cold injuries, physician, health, wilderness medicine, outdoor medicine, healthline

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