A nurse survived a hiking accident and managed to hike 10 miles to safety after a serious injury. David Cifaldi, a wound care nurse, was impaled by a trekking pole while climbing Montana’s Granite Peak on July 20.
Cifaldi was hiking with two friends when the accident happened. At an elevation of 11,800 feet, Cifaldi stepped on a loose rock, dropped his trekking pole, and fell forward. The pole went through his lat, with about 8 inches of pole protruding from both ends.
Cifaldi stayed calm, assessing the situation and noting no bleeding or lightheadedness. Deciding on a self-rescue, he hiked 10 miles back to the trailhead with the pole still in his body. A friend with him warned other hikers of his condition to prevent alarming children.
Once they reached the trailhead, Cifaldi was driven two hours to a hospital in Billings for treatment. The pole remained in place for 8 to 9 hours before removal. Ongoing care and possible surgery are part of his recovery.
Cifaldi said, “I think my nurse brain clicked on,” emphasizing his training in managing the situation.
Cifaldi expressed feeling fortunate, acknowledging the possibility of a more severe outcome had the injury been slightly different. His story has garnered attention and praise for his determination and quick thinking.
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