Course Overview

18 years or older

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. Online course through (AHA) must be taken prior skills session and a course certificate must be emailed prior to CPR skills session.

Course Overview

16hr – 2 day Course

The NIM Medical Wilderness First Aid course will provide essential field first aid skills in a remote environment.  Participants will learn first aid techniques and will apply that knowledge through hands-on exercises and scenarios.

This course presents information that can be used in day hikes, multi-day excursions, weekend camping, or packing trips, and is designed for trail runners, camp counselors and camp staff, off-roading and 4×4 enthusiasts,, snowmobiling, horse packing, hikers, climbers, and other medical outdoor enthusiasts.  

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. 

Other prior medical training and experience is not required.

Course Topics

• Wilderness Medicine Overview and Protocols
• Anatomy and Physiology (Systems Approach)
• Patient Assessment Methodology
• Medical Equipment and Improv
• Airway and Respiratory Management
• Fractures and Dislocations
• Head, Spine, and Torso Injuries
• Heat and Hydration
• Cold Emergencies
• Medical Problems
• Toxicology
• Wound Care and Bleeding Control
• Search and Rescue Techniques

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:

• 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 (NIM staff may be available to shuttle students to and from the airport).  Nearest Airport:  Rapid City Regional Airport

Food

• The course will provide lunch and water, coffee, hot chocolate, etc will be available consistently.  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 a Wilderness First Aid certificate.  It is recommended that the WFA 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 or toiletries

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

Cancellations made more than14 days in advance of the event date, will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made within 8-14 days will incur a 25% fee. Cancellations made less than 8 days of the event will not receive a refund.