Remote First Aid Training

Most first aid courses are based on the idea that professional medical aid will be available within a short period, and focus on keeping the victim alive until then. However, when the emergency response time is prolonged, care is more complicated and specialized first aid training is recommended.

Contents of Remote First Aid Training

• Remote first aid training covers the same topics as standard first aid courses: airway management, CPR, wound care, shock, fractures and so on. However, there is a greater concentration on continuing casualty care because the first aider will be in charge of the casualty longer. More time is also spent on environmental injuries caused by heat, cold or altitude.

  Some treatments are more extensive, as well. For instance, a fracture that is only supported while waiting for a city ambulance has to be immobilized properly if medical care is several days away. Managing pain and infection also become issues.

Levels of Remote First Aid Training

• Different organizations provide courses of differing lengths and call them different things. However, on average, a standard-level wilderness first aid course is around 20 hours, an advanced-level course is around 40 hours, a wilderness first responder course is around 80 hours and a wilderness EMT course is around 160 hours.

  Some organizations also provide training in wilderness medicine for physicians and nurses.

Organizations Providing Remote First Aid Training

• Various organizations provide remote first aid training in the US. The largest of these is the American Red Cross. Other national organizations include the Wilderness Medical Society, the National Outdoor Leadership Schools---Wilderness Medicine Institute and Wilderness Medical Associates.

  Organizations with a less national level of coverage include the International Wilderness Leadership School.