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The First Aid Kit on the Inca Trail

29/10/2024 12:43 pm

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The safety and well-being of our visitors is our top priority during the treks. The challenging terrain, altitude, and distance from medical centers make it essential to have a well-equipped first aid kit, adapted to the unique conditions of the environment. That’s why our guides are trained to effectively use our kit, which contains a comprehensive selection of medications and supplies to respond to any emergency on the trail.

 

Why is it vital to have a First Aid Kit on the mountains?

High mountain treks, such as the famous Inca Trail, present unique challenges that require special preparation. From altitude sickness to muscle injuries, it’s essential to be prepared for emergency situations. At Wayki Trek, we carry a comprehensive first aid kit that allows us to respond quickly in case of medical issues, protecting both hikers and our team.

Essential Contents of the First Aid Kit

Our first aid kit has been carefully designed to cover a wide range of possible medical situations. Below, we detail the medications and supplies we always carry on our expeditions.

1. Basic Medications

  • Analgesics and AntipyreticsParacetamol and Ibuprofen: Used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle pain, and fever, which are common after long days of hiking.
  • Topical Anti-InflammatoriesDiclofenac Gel: Ideal for treating local inflammation in cases of sprains or muscle injuries.
  • AntidiarrhealsLoperamide: Included to control diarrhea, which can result from changes in diet or water.
  • AntihistaminesLoratadine or Cetirizine: Essential for treating mild allergic reactions, such as insect bites or plant allergies.
  • AntiemeticsMetoclopramide: Used to relieve nausea or vomiting that may be related to altitude or motion sickness.
  • Oral Rehydration SaltsOral rehydration packets help treat dehydration, especially in cases of prolonged diarrhea or vomiting.

2. Altitude Medication

As we know that altitude sickness is a common risk on the Inca Trail, our first aid kit always includes:

  • Acetazolamide (Diamox): This medication helps prevent and treat the symptoms of altitude sickness, allowing for faster and safer acclimatization.
  • Aspirin: We use this medication to relieve mild headaches, a common symptom of altitude sickness.

 

3. Topic Medication and Antibiotics

  • Antibiotic Ointment (Neomycin/Bacitracin): Used to treat open wounds or cuts and prevent infections, a common concern during hikes.
  • Iodine Alcohol or Chlorhexidine: Essential for disinfecting wounds and preventing bacterial growth, especially in situations where hygiene may be compromised.

 

 

4. Essential Supplies

To treat a variety of minor injuries or situations, we carry:

  • Bandages and Dressings: From small adhesive strips to sterile gauze and elastic bandages for wounds and sprains.
  • Scissors and Tweezers: For cutting bandages or removing embedded objects like thorns or splinters.
  • Disposable Gloves: Ensure hygiene and prevent cross-contamination when handling wounds.
  • Medical Tape: Used to secure dressings and bandages, ensuring stability.
  • Instant Cold Packs: Useful for reducing inflammation in cases of acute injuries.
  • Band-Aids (plasters): To cover small cuts and blisters.
  • Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Protecting against intense sun and insects is essential to avoid burns and bites.

5. Medication for Strong Allergies

To ensure a rapid response to severe allergic reactions, our first aid kit includes:

  • Epinephrine (EpiPen): In cases of severe allergies (anaphylaxis), this medication is vital to prevent more serious complications, especially if a participant has a history of severe allergies.

 

6. Additional Emergency Equipment

  • Portable Oxygen: The high altitude on the Inca Trail can trigger respiratory issues for some hikers. We carry portable oxygen for emergencies related to severe altitude sickness.
  • Thermometer: Used to monitor body temperature in cases of fever.
  • Masks: Used in respiratory emergencies or when protection from dust or extreme cold is necessary.

Prescription Medication

We know that some medication in our first aid kit, like acetazolamide (Diamox) and epinephrine (EpiPen) require medical prescription. That’s the reason we try to make sure to work under the close supervision of doctors and under any legal requisites to administer this medication. Additionally, hikers are encouraged to bring any medications they need regularly and to inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions so that we are prepared.

Compliance with International Standards and Inca Trail Regulations

At “Wayki Trek,” we rigorously adhere to international standards of ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety) as well as the legal regulations governing safety in the country and the Inca Trail regulations. For this reason, it is essential to have a “comprehensive first aid kit” and trained guides to use it in emergency situations. Our team is always ready to act and ensure the safety of all participants.

Training and First Aid Kit Updates

Our commitment to safety involves not only having the appropriate equipment but also ensuring that all our staff are “properly trained” in first aid and the administration of the medications we carry. Additionally, we regularly review and update our first aid kit to ensure all medications are in good condition and have not expired.

 

Thanks to our meticulous preparation, you can walk with the tranquility of knowing your security is in good hands!

We hope this article helped you plan your next trip!

Thanks for reading!

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CONTACT US

Don't be told, live it! Wayki Trek is a Tour Company in Cusco, Peru specializing in Inca Trails to Machu Picchu, Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu and tours around Cusco region, with environmental and social responsibility always as a priority

Dónde encontrarnos: Calle Quera 239 Cusco – Perú

Horario comercial: de lunes a viernes de 9:00 a 18:00 / sábados de 9:00 a 13:00 (GMT -05: 00)

Teléfonos:
Para reservas: + (51) 1-251-8796
Para coordinaciones de viajes: + (51) 84-224092
Emergencias: + (51) 984-693-474 / + (51) 958-317-303

Skype: waykitrek.sale2

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