Chapter 1

Introduction to Wilderness First Aid

Lesson Objectives (1 of 2)
Define wilderness.
Compare wilderness first aid to traditional first aid.
Identify the legal and ethical issues of emergency
care.
Recognize the psychological and emotional
issues involved in wilderness first aid.
Lesson Objectives (2 of 2)
Describe appropriate infection and disease
precautions.
Identify the immunization needs for wilderness or
remote locations.
What Is Wilderness?
A remote geographical location more than 1 hour
from definitive medical care
Remote areas where outdoor occupations are
conducted
Remote communities
Developing countries
Urban areas after a disaster destroys
infrastructure and overwhelms EMS
What Is Wilderness First Aid?
Immediate care given to an injured or suddenly ill
person
Does not replace definitive medical care
Providing assistance until a more advanced level
of medical care is available or recovery occurs
Features of Wilderness First Aid
Both victims and rescuers are at risk for injury and
illness.
Definitive medical care can be delayed hours or
days.
Some injuries/illnesses are more common in
remote locations.
Supplies may be limited.
Difficult decisions must be made.
Prevention
It is much easier to
prevent a problem than
to manage it in the field.
Photodisc/age fotostock
Legal and Ethical Issues (1 of 2)
No legal obligation to aid a stranger.
Duty to act for those in certain occupations or
professions.
Follow accepted guidelines.
Provide only the level of care you are trained
to provide.
Do not put your own life or safety in jeopardy.
Legal and Ethical Issues (2 of 2)
Good Samaritan laws protect first aiders.
Obtain consent.
Explain treatments and involve victim in decisions.
Psychological and Emotional
Issues (1 of 2)
Can experience personal stress due to
extreme conditions.
Anxiety can compromise safety and interfere
with rescue or first aid.
Provide comfort and reassurance.
Reducing anxiety can decrease pain and
severity of injuries.
Psychological and Emotional
Issues (2 of 2)
If you become overwhelmed, stop to calm
yourself or request assistance.
Posttraumatic stress disorder may occur
following emergency situation.
Discuss your feelings with a friend or
professional.
Infectious Disease Precautions
(1 of 2)
Risk of exposure to
diseases
Most serious diseases
are bloodborne.
Use gloves and eye,
face, and mouth
protection.
Infectious Disease Precautions
(2 of 2)
Hepatitis B and HIV are spread by contact with
infected blood.
Vaccines are available for hepatitis B, but not HIV.
Vigorously wash hands and exposed skin.
Seek medical advice if exposure occurs.
Immunizations
No special immunizations needed in developed
countries.
Keep routine immunizations up-to-date.
Additional vaccinations may be recommended
for travel in less developed areas.
Travel Medical Insurance
Check coverage for illnesses and injuries
outside the United States.
May need to purchase appropriate
travel/medical insurance.