SAEMF/RAMS Resident Research Grant - $5,000

"Targeted Risk Reduction in the Winter Backcountry: An EM-Led Behavioral Intervention for Avalanche Injury Prevention"

This study is directly relevant to emergency medicine by addressing the behavioral underpinnings of avalanche trauma—an increasingly common and high-stakes emergency scenario in mountain states like Utah. Emergency physicians are often involved in the prehospital response, triage, and treatment of avalanche victims, and are uniquely positioned to influence injury prevention. By identifying behavioral risk factors and psychological patterns among backcountry users, this project supports the development of targeted public health messaging, risk counseling during clinical encounters, and improved preparedness strategies for EMS and wilderness response teams. It also contributes to EM’s expanding role in trauma- informed care, injury prevention, and community-based health interventions.

Recipient(s)

  • Olivia Pearson, MD

    Olivia Pearson, MD

    University of Utah

    "Targeted Risk Reduction in the Winter Backcountry: An EM-Led Behavioral Intervention for Avalanche Injury Prevention"

    Olivia Pearson, MD, is an emergency medicine resident at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Her clinical and research work focuses on improving safety and outcomes for individuals engaging in high-risk outdoor activities.

    Dr. Pearson’s academic interests include rural emergency medicine, wilderness medicine, and community-based health initiatives. Her research examines risk-taking behaviors in backcountry settings, with the goal of reducing avalanche-related injuries and fatalities. She studies the relationship between decision-making, risk perception, and recreation patterns to inform more effective education and prevention strategies.