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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.