Chapter 1

1. Chapter 1 Introduction to Wilderness First Aid

2. 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.

3. Lesson Objectives (2 of 2) • Describe appropriate infection and disease precautions. • Identify the immunization needs for wilderness or remote locations.

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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.

7. Prevention • It is much easier to prevent a problem than to manage it in the field. © Photodisc/age fotostock

8. 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.

9. Legal and Ethical Issues (2 of 2) • Good Samaritan laws protect first aiders. • Obtain consent. • Explain treatments and involve victim in decisions.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Infectious Disease Precautions(1 of 2) • Risk of exposure to diseases • Most serious diseases are bloodborne. • Use gloves and eye, face, and mouth protection.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. Travel Medical Insurance • Check coverage for illnesses and injuries outside the United States. • May need to purchase appropriate travel/medical insurance.