Outdoor EdVentures traditionally offers a Wilderness First Aid course once every academic year in the fall. The course is taught by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School).

Wilderness Medicine differs from traditional first aid in three respects. First, transport times are measured in hours and days rather than minutes, so many phases of patient care that usually occurs in a hospital must be carried out in the field. Second, severe environments dramatically increase the complexity of any emergency and heighten risks to patients and rescuers alike. Third, limited equipment makes improvisation and resourcefulness essential.

Professional instructors in the field of wilderness medical training will address these issues and more. Classes are fast-paced with an emphasis on practical skills. Mornings are devoted to lectures, while afternoons and evenings are spent outside working on everything from stretcher construction to full-scale rescue simulations. A number of realistic simulations, complete with fake wounds and stage blood, will be conducted. Past students commonly report of real-life rescues that "felt just like a simulation."

This course is recommended for all outdoor professionals and enthusiasts who spend time in remote areas.

Wilderness First Aid Information
Wilderness First Aid Hold/Harmless Release

Date/ Time: TBA (Spring '10)

Cost: TBA

Location: TBA

Sign-up deadline: TBA

Sign-up at Outdoor Edventures. Student billing available.

Wilderness medicine is what happens when someone in the wild calls for help... and they get you!

Description: In this course you will learn to deal with medical emergencies when help is miles and hours away, and dialing 911 is not an option. Knowledgeable instructors from the NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) will prepare you for emergency situations that involve prolonged patient care, severe environments, and improvised gear. This course is a great introduction to Wilderness Medicine. No previous experience is necessary. Topics include patient assessment, body systems, equipment improvisation, trauma, environmental medicine, and back country medicine. This class would look great on a resume if you plan on working as a trip leader, forest ranger, forest firefighter, or any other job that takes you into the wilderness. It is a very beneficial course if you spend a great amount of time in the wilderness context (which is one hour from definitive care).

Updated Oct. 1, 2009

Questions or Concerns: Contact Outdoor EdVentures and Rentals (346-3848) or e-mail Outedven@uwsp.edu