TTUHSC Emergency Medicine Expert Shares Day Hike Tips

Preparation and Planning Help Trips Begin and End on the Right Foot

“Be prepared” is not just the Boy Scout motto; it’s sound medical advice for day-hikers. Brian Kendall, M.D., Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) assistant professor of Emergency Medicine, said even for shorter hikes, that means having what you need to prevent and handle a variety of medical issues on the trail.

“I think having some basic knowledge before you go: what first aid is, either by watching a YouTube video or taking a class online, learning some of those basic first aid techniques,” Dr. Kendall said. “And then taking some of the supplies that you would need to treat those simple ailments.”