Course Overview

The NIM Medical APAP course is designed for existing medical providers (Paramedics, PA/NP, Physicians) who have an interest in wilderness and austere medicine. This course incorporates advanced concepts and prior experience in the field is advised.  

The clinical focus of the course will include content and live scenarios specific to Austere Environments, Expedition / Travel Medicine, Public Health and Humanitarian Emergencies, Austere Medevac, and Leadership Management.  This course is ideal for those seeking to be wildland firefighters, humanitarian aid groups, establishing field hospitals, developing country medicine or in semi-tactical environments. 

• This course is a stand-alone course and will provide an “APAP” certification with concepts that meet and exceed standard wilderness certifications.
• This course does not include or meet the requirements of a TCCC or similar course

Continued Education

For Paramedics: 

This course offers 32 hrs of CAPCE accredited continuing education through NIM Medical.

For Physicians and PA’s:

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) and NIM Medical. The WMS is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Wilderness Medical Society designates this enduring material activity for a maximum of 18.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ^TM. Each physician should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

•  All education content presented in this activity has been reviewed and validated as appropriate in keeping with sound scientific principles.

Course Requirements

• Current AHA BLS (CPR) certification is a prerequisite for the course
  • CPR can be taken in conjunction with the course through NIM Medical and will be completed prior to the beginning of the course. 
• Prior medical training and experience IS required

Course Requirements

Classroom

Course days run roughly from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with an hour-long break for lunch.  Course topics are scheduled but will operate on a rolling schedule as needed to optimize student learning and success.  The class format involves lectures integrated with practical scenarios, case studies, and skills sessions.  Scenarios and practice sessions will take place both inside and outside. 

The course is designed to recreate the flow of emergency incidents and the treatment of patients found in austere environments.  Learning aids and equipment may be used including UTVs, Ambulances, and Rescue Gear. Stage (moulage) blood and make-up are used to increase the experience of scenarios. Bring clothing appropriate for all weather conditions and temperatures while acting as the rescuer and the patient. Be prepared to hike moderate distances with a small day pack, group-carry patients with litters, and participate in outdoor learning activities in any weather.

Logistics

Location:  

• The course will be held at Storm Mountain in Rapid City, SD. This site is a “camp” style facility on beautiful Black Hills property with numerous education / out buildings, wilderness areas, common areas, dining hall, etc. and is a short drive from Rapid City and Mt. Rushmore. 
• Storm Mountain has an extensive trail system, area climbing opportunities, and access to Spring Creek.

Travel / Lodging:

• Address or the location is 23740 Storm Mountain Road, Rapid City, SD 57702

• Students are responsible for all travel to and from the teaching location.
  • Nearest Airport:  Rapid City Regional Airport
• Students are responsible for their own lodging.  Please contact NIM Medical for advice on local establishments if needed.

Food

• Lunch will be provided each day of the course.  A large dining hall is available in camp where meals will be served.  Specific diets may be accommodated if possible, however  students with diet needs or allergies should plan on providing for their specific needs.  
• Grocery stores, markets, etc. are a short drive into Rapid City, SD.  Kitchen use for personal meals or diets may be available.  

Curriculum

The curriculum was developed with the understanding that medical care may be done in austere and wilderness environments and that medical personnel may be the sole provider on scene for extended time frames. Information presented in this course draws from multiple sources and experience, with instructors drawing on multiple backgrounds.  

Upon completing the course, students will be awarded an Advanced Practice Austere Provider (APAP) certificate.  It is recommended that the APAP /course is renewed every two years.  

What to Bring (Recommended)

• Notebook and pen
• Watch with a second hand or digital seconds
• Sunglasses and/or protective eyewear
• Water bottle
• Light day pack
• Headlamp
• Waterproof outerwear–top and bottom
• Light hiking boots or sturdy shoes 
• Clothing layers that allow you to be comfortable in a variety of weather conditions, including a hat
• Personal items and toiletries
• Bedding, sleeping bag, pillow, etc.

*List is not exhaustive, and students should contact NIM Medical with any questions.  

Course Outline

*All times are estimated and subject to change based on the needs of the students and course.  Unless otherwise noted, meals will be served at the following approximate times:

Day 1

DAY 2

Day 3

Day 4