Wilderness First Aid Basics - Northwest North Carolina Chapter of The American Red Cross

Wilderness First Aid Basics

The American Red Cross Wilderness First Aid Basics Course is a course for those who work, live or

play in remote areas - away from the usual EMS Service. Even though the emergency workers near

these areas may be trained to search for and rescue those in need, there may be a delay in the

notification of assistance, the time required to get to the patient, or in moving the patient to more

advanced treatment.

The types of activities and persons needing more advanced training in first aid could be:

Hikers and Backpackers

Kayakers and canoers

Farm workers

Utility workers in remote areas

Forest Rangers

Law enforcement and rescue crews

Disaster situations

Course Outline

1. Types of delayed-help situations

2. Emergency action steps - Check, Call, Care

3. Checking the scene, patient and resources

4. Contacting help

5. Caring for the patient long term

6. Patient assessment and record

7. Preventing disease transmission

8. Prioritizing care

9. Treatment of injuries such as:

a. wounds

b. head and spinal injuries

c. extremity injuries

d. abdominal injuries

e. sudden illnesses

f. major bites and stings

g. other types of miseries

10. Carrying out the plan

11. Transports and evacuations

This 16-hour Wilderness First Aid course uses a combination of classroom, skills practice and role-play

to teach the response steps and treatment of injuries and illnesses in a delayed-help situation.

This class covers assessment and first aid techniques, but not in-depth CPR. Basic first aid skills are

covered, making this course appropriate for anyone regardless of experience level.