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boone

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  1. In general, Scouts learn basic first aid. The biggest difference between first aid and wilderness first aid is the concept of "extended care." In addition to basic/advanced first aid, there are wilderness protocols. These protocols are standards that would be used in a "wilderness" context, meaning Advanced Life Support/EMS or a hospital are not readily available (one definition was an hour away from ALS/hospital). These protocols in the WFR course included reduction of joint dislocations, CPR cessation, wound management, spine clearance, and epi pen (anaphylaxis management) administration. Most WFR courses are for people 18 and older (unless parental consent is given). WFA and WAFA courses might be available to people 16 and older. Scouts are taught basic first aid skills in progression through ranks and merit badges. The WFR course built on the basics that I learned in Scouting. There are several good resources for wilderness first aid. GernBlasten mentioned the NOLS link to the Wilderness Medicine Institute. I took the course through Wilderness Medical Associates. Both are great organizations and there are others. One of the "textbooks" for my course was The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook. It's a great resource and a gives a good overall picture. As a side note another great resource in general for backcountry travel is Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills (this is one of my favorites). Great stuff! It will give you a good overview of wilderness travel. It also has a first aid section that briefly covers some potential first aid situations. Good luck in your travels!
  2. WildernesStudent, I would recommend you take any of the wilderness first aid courses if you are planning on spending a lot of time in the backcountry. These courses are great primers and get you thinking about risk management, which will lead to better judgment and decision making out there. I took a Wilderness First Responder course a few years back through Wilderness Medical Associates. There were no prerequisites. Eventually, I had to re-certify through a Wilderness Advanced First Aid Course. I had a blast with both courses and would highly recommend them! I would recommend that anyone spending time in the outdoors take at least the basic Wilderness First Aid course. If you have the time and resources and plan on working in the industry, I would definitely go for the WFR. A lot of outdoor programs are making that a standard. I am glad to see that the BSA is moving in this direction and hope that more councils will look at providing training to adult leaders. Take care out there and safe travels!(This message has been edited by boone)
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