Virtual Speaker Series: Remote Emergency Medicine with Abby Rowe, M.Ed., NRAEMT

From Sea to Summit: Medical Decision-Making in Remote Environments

Have you ever wondered how you would handle a medical emergency while coastal cruising or at sea? Abby Rowe, president of Wilderness Medical Associates International and board president at the Carpenter’s Boat Shop, will introduce a systems-based framework for recognizing and responding to common medical problems in unpredictable, low-resource coastal and ocean environments. Just as understanding how an engine works helps you troubleshoot when it sputters or stalls, understanding how the body’s systems respond to illness and injury provides a foundation for sound medical decisions when professional help is out of reach.

Drawing on the principles of wilderness and rescue medicine, this presentation will clarify what constitutes an emergency, when to call for help, and how to treat emergencies when assistance is hours, days, or even weeks away. The session will cover topics such as broken bones, dislocations, wound care, and pain management with an emphasis on the realities of care in remote and austere settings.

This talk is for coastal cruisers, offshore sailors, and anyone who ventures beyond quick access to medical care—whether on the water, in the mountains, or in other remote settings.

Each month, experts and individuals linked to The Carpenter’s Boat Shop will share insights on a range of topics, providing you with the chance to expand your knowledge and explore new ideas. This series fosters meaningful connections within our community and beyond.

Offered virtually on Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 8:00 PM EST, the series is free and open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to engage in these inspiring conversations!