Preparedness for injuries sustained while hiking 14,000ft peaks in Colorado

Abstract Background: Every year hikers and climbers sustain injuries on Colorado’s highest peaks, with fatalities occasionally occurring. The purpose of this study was to investigate injury types and supplied carried by people hiking 14,000 feet (4,267.2 meters) peaks in Colorado. As the popularity of the sport increases, research exploring hiker experience, and injuries becomes imperative so that participants are better informed. Methods: An exploratory descriptive survey study using an online survey of a hiking group of 330 participants was conducted. These participants reported on injuries, supplies and practices of those attempting these hikes. Results: A total of 70% of respondents reported having sustained injuries while attempting a 14,000 feet peak hike, however these injuries were rarely serious. A large proportion of participants report being prepared for managing injuries by carrying medical supplies such as pain relievers (78.2%), adhesive bandages (77.9%), and bandages (66.7%). The major issue in their attempts was reported to be running out of water (39.4%), and getting lost (21.2%). Only a third of the participants had taken outdoor wilderness survival classes. Conclusion: Most frequent injuries sustained by participants tend to be minor and are more likely to occur or being witnessed as the activity is performed more frequently. This research serves as a reference of common injuries as well the types of first aid items that hikers commonly utilize and the associations between injuries and how hikers prepare for a 14,000 feet peak.