ICAR MEDCOM
Alpine Rescue & Mountain Emergency Medicine

Archive of Recommendations from ICAR MedCom

Since 1996, ICAR MedCom has regularly issued recommendations on mountain emergency medicine, training and medical equipment. Some recommendations are a few years old, but still up to date, some are older and some are being revised. In the past, recommendations were formed through either research or an expert panel's view when there was no hard scientific data available, but international knowledge and experience. This is how the first recommendations arose. Over time, research data has not only become more important, but also more available.   

All ICAR MedCom Recommendations that have been produced can be found on this page.



Recent Recommendations (less than 10 years)


MED REC 0033


The Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist (AVRC)

Date Published

17 October 2015

Author (s)

Kottman Alexander, Blancher Marc, Pasquier Mathieu, Brugger Hermann

Comments/ Abstract

Please read the Introduction first. There is a mandatory teaching presentation for the implementation of the AVRC. The Checklist ist available in four languages.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Introduction to the AVRC
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom Introduction to the AVRC.pdf (233.76KB)
Introduction to the AVRC
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom Introduction to the AVRC.pdf (233.76KB)



AVRC ENGLISH
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist English Version
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC english.pdf (119.4KB)
AVRC ENGLISH
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist English Version
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC english.pdf (119.4KB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation ENGLISH
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation English.pdf (10.63MB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation ENGLISH
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation English.pdf (10.63MB)



AVRC DEUTSCH
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Deutsche Version
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC deutsch.pdf (123.93KB)
AVRC DEUTSCH
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Deutsche Version
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC deutsch.pdf (123.93KB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation DEUTSCH
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation Deutsch.pdf (11.22MB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation DEUTSCH
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation Deutsch.pdf (11.22MB)



AVRC FRANCAIS
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Version Francaise
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC francais.pdf (120.45KB)
AVRC FRANCAIS
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Version Francaise
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC francais.pdf (120.45KB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation FRANCAIS
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation Francais.pdf (11.29MB)
AVRC Teaching Presentation FRANCAIS
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC Teaching Presentation Francais.pdf (11.29MB)



AVRC ITALIANO
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Versione Italiana
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC italiano.pdf (121.89KB)
AVRC ITALIANO
Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist Versione Italiana
MED-REC0033 ICAR MedCom AVRC italiano.pdf (121.89KB)




MED REC 0032


Managing Moderate and Severe Pain in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

23 December 2013

Author (s)

Ellerton John, Milani Mario, Blancher Marc, Zen-Ruffinen Gregoire, Skiaa Sven Christjar, Brink Bruce, Lohani Ashish, Paal Peter

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY, Volume 15, Number 1, 2014, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2013.113

Updates

updated in October 2019

Download (s)

Managing Moderate and Severe Pain in MR
MED-REC0032 Managing Moderate and Severe Pain in Mountain Rescue.pdf (245.71KB)
Managing Moderate and Severe Pain in MR
MED-REC0032 Managing Moderate and Severe Pain in Mountain Rescue.pdf (245.71KB)




MED REC 0031


Resuscitation of Avalanche Victims

Date Published

31 May 2013

Author (s)

Brugger Hermann, Durrer Bruno, Elsensohn Fidel, Paal Peter, Strapazzon Giacomo, Winterberger Eveline, Zafren Ken, Boyd Jeff

Comments/ Abstract

Published in Resuscitation, Volume 84, Issue 5 , Pages 539-546, May 2013

Updates

Update on January 25, 2023

On-site treatment of avalanche victims:

Scoping review and 2023 recommendations of the international commission for mountain emergency medicine (ICAR MedCom)

https://www.resuscitationjournal.com/article/S0300-9572(23)00021-7/fulltext

Download (s)

Resuscitation of Avalanche Victims
MED-REC0031 Resucitation of Avalanche Victims.pdf (461.84KB)
Resuscitation of Avalanche Victims
MED-REC0031 Resucitation of Avalanche Victims.pdf (461.84KB)




MED REC 0030


Termination of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

02 April 2012

Author (s)

Paal Peter, Milani Mario, Brown Douglas, Boyd Jeff, Ellerton John

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY, Volume 13, Number 3, 2012, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2011.1096

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Termination of CPR in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0030 Termination of CPR in Mountain Rescue.pdf (272.37KB)
Termination of CPR in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0030 Termination of CPR in Mountain Rescue.pdf (272.37KB)




MED REC 0029


Medical Standards for Mountain Rescue Operations Using Helicopters

Date Published

13 June 2011

Author (s)

Tomazin Iztok, Ellerton John, Reisten Oliver, Soteras Inigo, Avbelj Miha

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY, Volume 12, Number 4, 2011, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2010.1096

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Medical Standards for Mountain Rescue Operations Using Helicopters
MED-REC0029 Medical Standards for Mountain Rescue Operations Using Helicopters.pdf (168.6KB)
Medical Standards for Mountain Rescue Operations Using Helicopters
MED-REC0029 Medical Standards for Mountain Rescue Operations Using Helicopters.pdf (168.6KB)




MED REC 0028


Equipment of Medical Backpacks in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

23 May 2011

Author (s)

Elsensohn Fidel, Soteras Inigo, Reisten Oliver, Ellerton John, Brugger Hermann, Paal Peter

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY, Volume 12, Number 4, 2011, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2010.1048

Updates

Planned Update : MED REC 0035 FIRST AID KIT

Download (s)

Medical Backpacks in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0028 Medical Backpacks in Mountain Rescue.pdf (434.73KB)
Medical Backpacks in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0028 Medical Backpacks in Mountain Rescue.pdf (434.73KB)





Recommendations older than 10 years



MED REC 0027


Eye Problems in Mountain and Remote Areas: Prevention and On Site Treatment

Date Published

31 October 2009

Author (s)

Ellerton John, Zuljan Igor, Agazzi Giancelso, Boyd Jeff

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine, which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)



MED REC 0026


Fluid Management in Traumatic Shock: A Practical Approach for Mountain Rescue

Date Published

04 December 2008

Author (s)

Sumann Günther, Paal Peter, Mair Peter, Ellerton John, Dahlberg Tore, Zen-Ruffinen Gregoire, Zafren Ken, Brugger Hermann

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY Volume 10, Number 1, 2009, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc
DOI: 10.1089/ham.2008.1067

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Fluid Management in Traumatic Shock
MED-REC0026 Fluid Management in Traumatic Shock.pdf (217.97KB)
Fluid Management in Traumatic Shock
MED-REC0026 Fluid Management in Traumatic Shock.pdf (217.97KB)



MED REC 0025


Current Status of Medical Training in Mountain Rescue in America and Europe

Date Published

26 January 2009

Author (s)

Elsensohn Fidel, Niederklapfer Thomas, Ellerton John, Swangard Michael, Brugger Hermann, Paal Peter

Comments/ Abstract

Published in HIGH ALTITUDE MEDICINE & BIOLOGY Volume 10, Number 2, 2009 © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.

DOI: 10.1089=ham.2008.1074

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Current Status of Medical Training in Mountain Rescue in America and Europe
MED-REC0025 Status of Medical Training in Mountain Rescue in America and Europe.pdf (334.86KB)
Current Status of Medical Training in Mountain Rescue in America and Europe
MED-REC0025 Status of Medical Training in Mountain Rescue in America and Europe.pdf (334.86KB)



MED REC 0024


Immobilization and Splinting in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

13 February 2009

Author (s)

Ellerton John, Tomazin Iztok, Brugger Hermann, Paal Peter

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine, ICAR-MEDCOM, which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

pending

Download (s)

Immobilization and Splinting in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0024 Immobilization and Splinting in Mountain Rescue.pdf (98.15KB)
Immobilization and Splinting in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0024 Immobilization and Splinting in Mountain Rescue.pdf (98.15KB)



MED REC 0023


The Use of Extrication Devices in Crevasse Accidents

Date Published

21 September 2008

Author (s)

Winterberger Eveline, Jacomet Hans, Zafren Ken, Zen Ruffinen Grégoire, Jelk Bruno

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine - ICAR-MEDCOM - and the Terrestrial Rescue Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue ICAR which have full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Extrication Devices in Crevasse Accidents
MED-REC0023 The use of Extrication Devices in Crevasse Accidents.pdf (204.92KB)
Extrication Devices in Crevasse Accidents
MED-REC0023 The use of Extrication Devices in Crevasse Accidents.pdf (204.92KB)



MED REC 0022


Venomous Snakebite in Mountainous Terrain: Prevention and Management

Date Published

11 March 2008

Author (s)

Boyd Jeff, Agazzi Giancelso, Svajda Dario, Morgan Arthur J, Ferrandis Silvia, Norris Robert

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the ICAR and UIAA MEDCOMS that have full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Venomous Snakebite in the Mountains
MED-REC0022 Snakebite in the Mountains.pdf (1MB)
Venomous Snakebite in the Mountains
MED-REC0022 Snakebite in the Mountains.pdf (1MB)



MED REC 0021


Basic Life Support Ventilation in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

03 January 2007

Author (s)

Paal Peter, Ellerton John, Sumann Günther, Demetz Florian, Mair Peter, Brugger Hermann

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Basic Life Support Ventilation in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0021 Basic Life Support Ventilation in Mountain Rescue.pdf (109.72KB)
Basic Life Support Ventilation in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0021 Basic Life Support Ventilation in Mountain Rescue.pdf (109.72KB)



MED REC 0020


A Survey of Emergency Medical Services in Mountain Areas of Europe and North America

Date Published

01 September 2005

Author (s)

Brugger Hermann, Elsensohn Fidel, Syme David, Sumann Günther, Falk Markus

Comments/ Abstract

Original publication: Brugger H, Elsensohn F, Syme D, Sumann G, Falk M. A survey of emergency
medical services in mountain areas of Europe and North America. High Alt Med Biol 2005;6/3:226-237

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

EMS in Mountain Areas of Europe and North America
MED-REC0020 EMS in Mountain Areas of Europe and North America.pdf (63.49KB)
EMS in Mountain Areas of Europe and North America
MED-REC0020 EMS in Mountain Areas of Europe and North America.pdf (63.49KB)



MED REC 0019


The Use of Automated Defibrillators and Public Access Defibrillators in the Mountains

Date Published

22 June 2006

Author (s)

Elsensohn Fidel, Agazzi Giancelso, Syme David, Swangard Michael, Facchetti Gianluca, Brugger Hermann

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)



MED REC 0018


Lightning Injuries: Prevention and On Site Treatment in Mountains and Remote Areas

Date Published

24 July 2005

Author (s)

Zafren Ken, Durrer Bruno, Herry Jean-Pierre , Brugger Hermann

Comments/ Abstract

Published in RESUSCITATION, V65(3): 369-372, © 2005 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Official guidelines of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine and the Medical Commission of the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (ICAR and UIAA MEDCOM)

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Lightning Injuries, Prevention and On Site Treatment ENGLISH
MED-REC0018 Lightning Injuries - Prevention and On Site Treatment.pdf (207.08KB)
Lightning Injuries, Prevention and On Site Treatment ENGLISH
MED-REC0018 Lightning Injuries - Prevention and On Site Treatment.pdf (207.08KB)
Lightning Injuries, Prevention and On Site Treatment DEUTSCH
MED-REC0018 Lightning Injuries - Prevention and On Site Treatment DEUTSCH.pdf (49.73KB)
Lightning Injuries, Prevention and On Site Treatment DEUTSCH
MED-REC0018 Lightning Injuries - Prevention and On Site Treatment DEUTSCH.pdf (49.73KB)



MED REC 0017


Medical Considerations in the Use of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

 07 September 2004

Author (s)

Tomazin Iztok, Kovacs Tim

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Medical Considerations for the Use of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0017 Medical Considerations for the Use of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue.pdf (27.26KB)
Medical Considerations for the Use of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0017 Medical Considerations for the Use of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue.pdf (27.26KB)



MED REC 0016


Small Volume Therapy in Mountain Rescue

Date Published

 31 December 2002

Author (s)

Thomas Alfred

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Small Volume Therapy in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0016 Small Volume Therapy in Mountain Rescue.pdf (14.44KB)
Small Volume Therapy in Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0016 Small Volume Therapy in Mountain Rescue.pdf (14.44KB)



MED REC 0015


On Site Treatment of Frostbite for Mountaineers

Date Published

31 December 2000

Author (s)

Syme David

Comments/ Abstract

This article reflects the consensus of opinion of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine which has full responsibility for the content.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)



MED REC 0014


The Medical On Site Treatment of Hypothermia

Date Published

31 December 1998

Author (s)

Brugger Hermann, Durrer Bruno, Syme David

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for First Responders and Emergency Physicians

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

The Medical On Site Treatment of Hypothermia
MED-REC0014 On Site Treatment of Hypothermia.pdf (35.37KB)
The Medical On Site Treatment of Hypothermia
MED-REC0014 On Site Treatment of Hypothermia.pdf (35.37KB)



MED REC 0013


On Site Treatment of Avalanche Victims

Date Published

31 December 1999

Author (s)

Brugger Hermann, Durrer Bruno

Comments/ Abstract

Paper intended for physicians and paramedics

Updates

See MED REC 0031 Resuscitation of Avalanche Victims and MED REC 0033 The Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Card (AVRC)

Download (s)

On Site Treatment of Avalanche Victims
MED-REC0013 On Site Treatment of Avalanche Victims.pdf (29.51KB)
On Site Treatment of Avalanche Victims
MED-REC0013 On Site Treatment of Avalanche Victims.pdf (29.51KB)



MED REC 0012


Thoracostomy at the Scene of an Accident in the Mountains

Date Published

31 December 1996

Author (s)

Forster Herbert, Zafren Ken

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for Emergency Physicians

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Thoracostomy at the Scene of an Accident in the Mountains
MED-REC0012 Thoracostomy at the Scene of an Accident in the Mountains.pdf (14.33KB)
Thoracostomy at the Scene of an Accident in the Mountains
MED-REC0012 Thoracostomy at the Scene of an Accident in the Mountains.pdf (14.33KB)



MED REC 0011


Emergency Intubation and Ventilation in the Field

Date Published

31 December 1998

Author (s)

Thomas Alfred, Rammlmair Georg, Wiget Urs

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for mountain emergency physicians

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Emergency Intubation and Ventilation on the Field
MED-REC0011 Emergency Intubation and Ventilation on the Field.pdf (17.9KB)
Emergency Intubation and Ventilation on the Field
MED-REC0011 Emergency Intubation and Ventilation on the Field.pdf (17.9KB)



MED REC 0010


Treatment of Pain in the Field

Date Published

31 December 1999

Author (s)

Thomas Alfred, Wiget Urs, Rammlmair Georg

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for mountain emergency physicians

Updates

Consider MED REC 0032 Managing Moderate and Severe Pain and the Updated Version (Current Recommendations)

Download (s)

Treatment of Pain in the Field
MED-REC0010 Treatment of Pain in the Field.pdf (22.54KB)
Treatment of Pain in the Field
MED-REC0010 Treatment of Pain in the Field.pdf (22.54KB)



MED REC 0009


Treatment of Shoulder Dislocations

Date Published

31 December 1998

Author (s)

Forster Herbert, Zafren Ken

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for mountain rescue first responders and rescue physicians according to national regulations.

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Treatment of Shoulder Dislocations
MED-REC0009 Treatment of Shoulder Dislocations.pdf (67.87KB)
Treatment of Shoulder Dislocations
MED-REC0009 Treatment of Shoulder Dislocations.pdf (67.87KB)



MED REC 0008


Treatment of Dislocations and Fractures

Date Published

31 December 1996

Author (s)

Forster Herbert, Zafren Ken

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for all rescue first responders according to national regulations

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Treatment of Dislocations and Fractures
MED-REC0008 Treatment of Dislocations and Fractures.pdf (16.53KB)
Treatment of Dislocations and Fractures
MED-REC0008 Treatment of Dislocations and Fractures.pdf (16.53KB)



MED REC 0007


Immobilisation and the Use of the Vacuum Mattress in Organised Mountain Rescue

Date Published

31 December 2001

Author (s)

Rammlmair Georg, Zafren Ken

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for Mountain Rescuers and Mountain Emergency Physicians

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Immobilisation and the Use of the Vacuum Mattress in Organised Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0007Immobilisation and the Use of Vacuum Mattress in MR.pdf (14.43KB)
Immobilisation and the Use of the Vacuum Mattress in Organised Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0007Immobilisation and the Use of Vacuum Mattress in MR.pdf (14.43KB)



MED REC 0006


Equipment for Canyoing Rescue Doctors

Date Published

31 December 2001

Author (s)

Ledoux Xavier, Wiget Urs

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for Emergency Physicians

Updates

Planned update : Canyoning Guidelines

Download (s)

Equipment for Canyoning Rescue Doctors
MED-REC0006 Equipment for Canyoning Rescue Doctors.pdf (14KB)
Equipment for Canyoning Rescue Doctors
MED-REC0006 Equipment for Canyoning Rescue Doctors.pdf (14KB)



MED REC 0005


A Modular First Aid Kit for Alpinists, Mountain Guides and Alpinist Physicians

Date Published

31 December 1998

Author (s)

Wiget Urs

Comments/ Abstract

Intended for physicians and pharmacists according to national regulations

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Modular Fist Aid Kit for Alpinists, Mountain Guides and Physicians
MED-REC0005 Modular First Aid Kit for Alpinists, Mountain Guides and Physicians.pdf (16.07KB)
Modular Fist Aid Kit for Alpinists, Mountain Guides and Physicians
MED-REC0005 Modular First Aid Kit for Alpinists, Mountain Guides and Physicians.pdf (16.07KB)



MED REC 0004


Contents of a Mountain Refuge's Pharmacy

Date Published

31 December 1996

Author (s)

Vogt Christian, Thomas Alfred, Forster Herbert, Wiget Urs

Comments/ Abstract

Paper intended for physicians and pharmacists according to national regulations

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Contents of a Mountain Refuge's Pharmacy
MED-REC0004 Contents of a Mountain Refuge's Pharmacy.pdf (15.04KB)
Contents of a Mountain Refuge's Pharmacy
MED-REC0004 Contents of a Mountain Refuge's Pharmacy.pdf (15.04KB)



MED REC 0003


Qualifications for Emergency Doctors in Mountain Rescue Operations

Date Published

31 December 2001

Author (s)

Rammlmair Georg, Zafren Ken, Elsensohn Fidel

Comments/ Abstract

ICAR Recommendation intended for Mountain Emergency Physicians

Updates

N/A

Download (s)

Qualifications for Emergency Doctors in Mountain Rescue Operations
MED-REC0003 Qualifications for Emergency Doctors in MR.pdf (12.39KB)
Qualifications for Emergency Doctors in Mountain Rescue Operations
MED-REC0003 Qualifications for Emergency Doctors in MR.pdf (12.39KB)



MED REC 0002


Canyoning Rescue for Professional Guides

Date Published

31 December 2001

Author (s)

Wiget Urs, Ledoux Xavier

Comments/ Abstract

N/A

Updates

Planned update : Canyoning Guidelines

Download (s)

Canyoning Rescue for Professional Guides
MED-REC0002 Canoying Rescue for Professional Guides.pdf (12.31KB)
Canyoning Rescue for Professional Guides
MED-REC0002 Canoying Rescue for Professional Guides.pdf (12.31KB)



MED REC 0001


First Aid Training Guidelines

Date published

 1996

Author (s)

Fidel Elsensohn

Comments / Abstract

N/A

Updates


N/A

Download (s)

First Aid Training Guidelines for Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0001 First Aid Training Guidelines for Mountain Rescue Service Members.pdf (16.8KB)
First Aid Training Guidelines for Mountain Rescue
MED-REC0001 First Aid Training Guidelines for Mountain Rescue Service Members.pdf (16.8KB)



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