Because of the risks of Acute Mountain Sickness, it is recommended that climbers select a tour operator that offers medically trained guides.  The presence of medically trained guides during a medical emergency on the mountain can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

A medically trained guide can provide the security and assurance that you will receive the appropriate medical care if an medical emergency situation does arise.  When identifying a tour operator look for medical equipment/supplies such as emergency oxygen, hyperbaric chamber, pulse oximeter, stretcher and first aid kit.

Guides should be certified in:

• Recognizing and avoiding wilderness hazards
• Performing first aid in a variety of wilderness accident scenarios
• Altitude sickness and recognizing symptoms in the early stages
• Emergency use of Oxygen
• Performing CPR