Podcast 168: Austere Surgery with Surgeon, Dave Hardin
In this podcast episode, Dennis interviews David Hardin, a general surgeon with experience in austere environments. They discuss the differences between surgeons in first-world and austere environments, the importance of improvisation, training and manpower considerations, supplies and procedures in austere surgery, moving patients in austere environments, preparing for austere surgery, making decisions in austere environments, logistics and equipment, dealing with loss, preparing for unknowns, coping with emotional stress, and finding joy in austere surgery.
From Dave:
Here is a brief list of books that have had an impact on me as a military and volunteer surgeon in austere environments:
(Neither he nor us receive and contributions from Amazon. Some of these books may be found in municipal libraries.)
Primary Surgery. Vol 1: Non-Trauma – Global HELP (global-help.org)
The Parachute Ward: Street, Brian Jeffrey Jeffrey: 9781411653603: Amazon.com: Books
Amazon.com: Guerrilla Surgeon eBook : Rogers, Dr. Lindsay: Kindle Store
Surgeon on Iwo: Up Front With the 27th Marines: Vedder, James S.: 9780891411994: Amazon.com: Books
Combat Surgeon: On Iwa Jima with the 27th Marines: James S. Vedder: 9781568658865: Amazon.com: Books
Here is another article that demonstrates “that you can always find a way to do something.”
-Dave
Other Takeaways From the Episode:
Austere surgery requires improvisation and resourcefulness due to limited supplies and equipment.
Training and teamwork are crucial in austere surgery, and having a resilient and adaptable team is important.
In austere environments, decisions must be made based on available resources and the best interest of the patient.
Preparing for austere surgery involves pre-planning, understanding the environment, and being mentally and physically prepared.
Coping with loss and emotional stress is a challenge in austere surgery, and supporting and insulating team members is important.
Finding joy in the work and being grateful for the opportunity to help others can sustain surgeons in austere environments.
Watch the episode now:
Visit Our PFCC Sponsors:
www.prolongedfieldcare.org © 2015 by Paul Loos is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0