Wilderness First Responder – Austere (WFR-A)

Course Overview

88hr – 12 day Course.

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.

The NIM Medical WFR-A course is designed to replace and exceed the traditional “Wilderness First Responder” or “WFR” course by including expanded education in a broader “austere” environment.

The clinical focus of the course will include content and live scenarios specific to Outdoor Recreation, Expedition / Travel Medicine, Public Health and Humanitarian Emergencies, Austere Medevac, and Leadership Management.  This course is ideal for those seeking to be on ski patrols, wildland firefighters, humanitarian aid groups, or basic medical aid in semi-tactical environments.

• This course is a stand-alone course and will provide a “WFR-A” certification that meets and exceeds a “WFR” certification.
• This course does not include or meet the requirements of a TCCC or similar course

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

Lodging

• Multiple “dorm” style rooms are available for students and sleep up to 8 people.  Rooms will be assigned by NIM faculty as registrations and students arrive.  Each room has bunk-style beds and mattresses. Students should plan on bringing any/all bedding materials, sleeping bags, pillows etc.  All rooms and the entire facility is climate controlled.
• Bathrooms and Showers are available in the facility and are “dorm” style with private shower stalls and common sink areas. Students should plan to bring all toiletries and personal supplies.

Food

• The course will be catered and 3 meals a day will be provided 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 & Austere First Responder (WAFR) certificate.  It is recommended that the WAFR 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:

0700 Breakfast

1200 Lunch

1730 Dinner

Arrival Day (Day 0)

Day 1

DAY 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

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.