Himalayan First Aid: Basics for Everest Trekkers

How to Handle Injuries Far from Help

Be Your Own First Responder

On an Everest trekking trip, help can be hours or even days away. Knowing basic first aid is essential for every Mount Everest expedition member to handle the common scrapes of the trail.

Cleaning Wounds

At high altitude, the body heals slower. Even a small cut can become a major infection during a Mount Everest expedition. Clean every wound thoroughly and use antibiotic ointment immediately.

Trekker Bandaging a Scraped Knee on Trail
Treating Sprains

The 'RICE' method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the gold standard. Use a compression wrap from your Everest trekking first-aid kit to stabilize any sprains until you can reach a lower lodge.

The Importance of CPR

While rare, knowing CPR is a vital skill for anyone in the Mount Everest summit region. It’s a foundational part of safety training for every professional Mount Everest expedition guide.

Safety is a Skill

First aid is the gear you carry in your head. Spend the time to learn the basics before you start your Everest trekking adventure. It could save a life.