Wilderness first aid

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is a specific type of first aid which is designed to provide immediate care in remote locations, where emergency medical services may not be readily available. This type of first aid requires specific skills and knowledge to handle the unique situations that can occur in the wilderness.

Overview

Wilderness First Aid is a specialized form of first aid that is used in situations where help from emergency medical services may be delayed or unavailable. This can include situations such as hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities in remote locations. The goal of wilderness first aid is to stabilize the patient and manage the situation until more advanced medical help can arrive.

Training

Training for wilderness first aid typically includes basic first aid skills, as well as specific techniques for dealing with injuries and illnesses that are more likely to occur in the wilderness. This can include things like hypothermia, heat stroke, and snake bites. Many organizations offer wilderness first aid courses, including the American Red Cross and the Wilderness Medical Society.

Techniques

Wilderness first aid techniques often have to be adapted to the specific circumstances of the situation. For example, in a wilderness setting, it may not be possible to transport a patient to a hospital quickly, so first aid may need to focus on stabilizing the patient and preventing further injury. This can include things like splinting broken bones, treating wounds to prevent infection, and managing symptoms of illness or exposure.

Equipment

The equipment used in wilderness first aid can vary depending on the situation and the resources available. However, a basic wilderness first aid kit should include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, a thermometer, and a CPR mask. It may also include items like a splint, a tourniquet, and a snake bite kit.

See also

• First aid
• Wilderness medicine
• Survival skills