This thread got me wondering if anyone has ideas on improvising c-spine stabiliztion for a climber 4 pitches up, that is A/O 1/4 with no bleeding? You did not see the climber fall. You have standard gear for the 8 pitch climb, but no first aid kit and the base of the climb is an hour from your car, and two hours from definitive medical care. Ideas?

Call for more hands.

Prepare before you go out in committing backcountry by having something to do a locate. Getting the locate for the responders is what you need to focus on. Also, look to climber anchor safety and prepare fixed lines for the responders.

What you think are multiple hours out, may not be for the rescuer to access the area. Getting responders quick access is what will make the difference. Yes, while the evac itself even with trained responders this may probably be more than two hours to the hospital; that quick access to bring in stabilization is what can make the difference.

This is where the buddy rescue can be a real bad idea. You can take a WFR, but for high angle mid-wall, you are limited; I'd say you'd be about the same skillset in WFA on this. There's just not much you can do on your own and not do more harm than good.

Thanks BJ. What do you mean by a "locate?" Would leaving coordinates with someone, or leaving your trip plans at a ranger station fit this category?

a jacket, hip belt off a backpack, and tape could make a good c-spine collar. but buff is right in that definitive care is what this patient is going to need. anything that expediates that process is what is going to make a difference.