Nurses call for help and tend to hiker who fell off trail in Washington, rescuers say
Nurses tended to an injured hiker on a Washington trail after they sent a message for help from a satellite communicator, rescuers said.
The hiker had fallen off the Stuart Lake Trail on Oct. 4 and “suffered significant injuries,” the Chelan County Mountain Rescue said in a Facebook post.
The hiker was about 3 miles up the trail when they fell, rescuers said.
Nurses from Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center were with the hiker, rescuers said, and used an inReach device to call rescuers.
The inReach device uses a satellite network to communicate with others when there isn’t a cell service. An SOS message can also be activated on the device.
Two rescuers ran to reach the injured hiker as more followed.
Rescuers said the person was hoisted off the trail and taken to a hospital.
“As a trauma nurse from HarborView It was a privilege to be able to be there for the hiker,” Sandy Montanya commented on the post.
Montanya thanked the search and rescue teams that helped the hiker that night.
“There really were so many people who were responsible for a safe and successful rescue,” she wrote.
Montanya did not immediately respond to McClatchy News’ request for comment.
The Stuart Lake Trail is a nearly 9-mile out-and-back trail near Leavenworth. It takes about 4.5 hours to hike, according to AllTrails.
Leavenworth is about 135 miles east of Seattle.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published October 9, 2023 at 3:02 PM with the headline "Nurses call for help and tend to hiker who fell off trail in Washington, rescuers say."
