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.