Highline Fire Rhabdo Case 2017

As the hotshot crew hiked into the fire, crewmember Bill began to get a headache and a moderately upset stomach. Approximately two miles into their hike, Bill began having trouble walking. His equilibrium was feeling off. He informed his Squad Boss about what was happening and they took a break in the shade.

Soon after, he began feeling worse. Bill, his Squad Boss, and the Crew EMT took off Bill’s pack and began to cool Bill’s body by pouring water on him and having him drink water. The Crew EMT began a thorough examination of Bill. During the next 45 minutes, they monitored Bill’s progress, continued to give him fluids, and began assessing the logistics of a medevac. Their plan was to utilize a UTV that was on their Division to extract Bill out to the road where he would be transferred to awaiting paramedics who, upon examination, would transport him to the hospital.

Upon arrival at the hospital, Bill was given a CPK test and was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis. He remained in the care of the hospital until his CPK levels dropped below 1000 IU/L H.--24 hours after his admittance to the hospital. Bill was then released and demobilized back to his home unit for further recovery.

Hand Crews, Rhabdomyolysis, Medevac, RLS, Extended Attack, Medical or Exertion