Outdoor emergency care

Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) is a training program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills to provide emergency medical services in outdoor, wilderness, and remote settings. Originating in the United States, the program is especially tailored for ski patrollers, but it is also highly relevant for hikers, mountain guides, wilderness educators, and anyone involved in outdoor activities where traditional emergency medical services may be delayed or unavailable.

Overview

Outdoor Emergency Care encompasses a wide range of topics, including but not limited to patient assessment, trauma care, environmental emergencies, and improvised methods of transport. The curriculum is designed to address the unique challenges faced when providing care in outdoor environments, such as dealing with difficult terrain, variable weather conditions, and limited resources.

History

The program was developed in the late 1980s by the National Ski Patrol (NSP) in response to the need for a standardized education program that could address the specific requirements of ski patrollers. Since then, OEC has evolved and expanded, becoming a recognized standard for outdoor emergency care training not only for ski patrollers but also for other outdoor professionals and enthusiasts.

Curriculum

The OEC curriculum includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key components of the program include:

• Patient Assessment: Systematic approach to evaluating the injured or ill person.
• Trauma Care: Management of injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and wound care.
• Medical Emergencies: Recognition and treatment of common medical emergencies, such as heart attack, asthma, and anaphylaxis.
• Environmental Emergencies: Management of conditions caused by extreme temperatures, altitude, and other environmental factors.
• Lift Evacuation: Techniques for safely evacuating individuals from chairlifts and gondolas.
• Transportation: Methods for safely moving patients, including the use of toboggans and improvised stretchers.

Certification

To become certified in Outdoor Emergency Care, candidates must complete a comprehensive course that includes both classroom instruction and practical field exercises. The course is typically offered by local chapters of the National Ski Patrol, as well as by some colleges, universities, and outdoor education centers. Upon successful completion of the course and passing the final examination, participants receive OEC certification, which is recognized nationally and, in some cases, internationally.

Recertification

OEC certification requires regular recertification, which involves continuing education and skills practice to ensure that individuals remain current with the latest standards and practices in outdoor emergency care. The frequency and requirements for recertification may vary depending on the certifying organization.

Applications

While initially designed for ski patrollers, the skills and knowledge gained from OEC training are applicable to a wide range of outdoor activities. Outdoor educators, wilderness guides, search and rescue personnel, and even casual outdoor enthusiasts can benefit from OEC training, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in outdoor safety and emergency care.

See Also

• Wilderness First Aid
• Wilderness First Responder
• National Ski Patrol
• Search and Rescue