Welcome to the 1st Aid Site!
Everything First Aid Related...

Wilderness First Aid Restrictions?

Hey guys. I was recently certified in WIlderness First Aid, and I work at a camp where they want me to be "on call" as a first aid resource this summer. Does anyone know what I can and can't do legally? P.S. - the camp is within one hour driving time from a hospital.

Public Comments

1. I can't believe a camp would use someone with only a first aid cert which isn't much of anything for this but whatever. You can legally do only those things you were trained and tested on so refer to that. Beyond that anything you do will be considered practicing medicine without a license.

2. You cannot diagnose somebody. You can help treat in first aid, but remember you can't say anything like "you have a broken leg" and tell them to go to a doctor with that information. It may sound silly but it'll help defend you against law suits from dodgy parents. Remember you're only certified in first aid, not as an EMT so basically if you think there's a problem requiring a visit to the hospital, you have to call for an ambulance.

3. Pretty much nothing.

4. What is the level of Wilderness First Aid?

Wilderness First Responder
Wilderness First Aid
Wilderness Advanced First Aid

Where you given a Wilderness First Aid manual? Surely you were told what the guidelines of WFA, especially when in a remote area.

I would assume as the WFA officer your role would be too;
Recognise signs and symptoms of illness.
Stabilise the victim until medical aid arrives.
Prevent the victims condition from becoming worse, Protect victim from elements (weather e.g cold & heat).
Be prepared to do CPR
Dress wounds and injuries.
Manage broken bones with due care, stabilising breaks with splints etc.
Assist in giving medication.
If more than one victim, how to prioitise victims in order of greatest need.
Maintain First Aid equipment.

To cover youself, seek clarification on what is your exact role, and just what does this role entail, what equipment is at your disposal, and what is their policies and procedures.

Good luck