Page 188 - ATP-P 11th Ed

®
®
c. Considers salmeterol (Serevent ) 2 inhalations q12hr or albuterol (Ventolin )
2 inhalations q6hr as an adjunct treatment.
d. Minimize patient exertion during descent for HAPE since this will exacerbate
symptoms.
5. Treat per Pain Management Protocol, but avoid the use of narcotics since they may
depress respiratory drive and worsen high altitude illness.
6. Treat per Nausea and Vomiting Protocol.
7. For signs or symptoms of either HAPE or HACE: If immediate descent is not tactically
SECTION 2 feasible and a Gamow bag is available, use a Gamow bag in 1 hour treatment sessions
with bag inflated to a pressure of 2psi (approximately 100mmHg) above ambient pres-
sure. Four or five sessions are typical for effective treatment. GAMOW BAG TREAT-
MENT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR DESCENT.
8. Treat per Dehydration Protocol.

Disposition
1. Most cases of AMS are relatively mild, resolve in 2–3 days, and do not require
evacuation.
2. Avoid vigorous activity for 3–5 days.
3. Priority evacuation for AMS patients that worsen despite therapy.
4. Urgent evacuation for patients with suspected HACE or HAPE.
5. Individuals who have recovered from HACE or HAPE should not re-ascend
without medical officer clearance.

178 SECTION 2 TACTICAL MEDICAL EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS (TMEPs) ATP-P Handbook 11th Edition 179