Air rescue up close: excursion to Christophorus 1

During the last week of the 2023 spring semester, the Medical & Health Technologies students had the unique opportunity to visit the air rescue unit "ÖAMTC - Flugrettung, Christophorus 1" next to the Innsbruck airport as part of their course "Physiology and Pathology". This excursion provided aspiring medical technologists with detailed insight into the operations and medical technologies used in air rescue.

After a warm welcome, the students were given a tour of the hangar where the air rescue team is stationed. They received information about the organization and operational procedures of the air rescue unit. Then, they had the chance to look inside the helicopter "Christophorus 1" and get familiar with the medical technology equipment which is used during rescue missions.

Especially fascinating was the explanation of how these medical devices change their function and reaction under extreme environmental conditions, at low temperatures, for example. They learned that these devices react differently than under normal conditions, which can also lead to problems. For example, it is possible for flexible polymers to harden and for water to get into areas it should not reach. Our future medical and sports technologists were encouraged to consider how they could address and prevent such issues through their studies and work.

At the end of the excursion, the air rescue received an emergency call, which gave our students the rare privilege of seeing the "Christophorus 1" team in action. It was an impressive experience to witness the teamwork and professional approach of the rescue forces first-hand.

This field trip to the "Christophorus 1" air rescue was undoubtedly a highlight of the 2023 spring semester. Not only did it allow students to see the helicopter and the team in action, but also to learn about the medical technology devices used here.

Especially seeing the rescue teams during a real operation showed the students the challenge as well as the enormous importance of their future work, through which they can contribute to saving human lives.