Wilderness First Responder
Wilderness Medicine Course & Certification
This 72 hour Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course is tailored for individuals seeking an in-depth understanding of wilderness medicine. It is ideal for professional outdoor guides and enthusiasts who desire comprehensive knowledge and skills to address common injuries and illnesses encountered in remote outdoor settings.
Beyond certifications, the course empowers individuals with the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively to medical emergencies in remote wilderness settings, enhancing safety for both themselves and others. Additionally, the curriculum is continually reviewed to ensure it aligns with the most current guidelines, providing participants with up-to-date knowledge and best practices in wilderness medicine.
About the Course
Curriculum
The curriculum not only covers medical knowledge but also fosters critical decision-making skills essential for effective backcountry medical management.
Core Topics
- Patient Assessment: Scene Survey, Primary Survey, Secondary Survey
- CPR/BLS (a basic life support equivalent)
- Bleeding and Shock
- Wound and Burn Management
- Fractures and Dislocations
- Chest Injuries
- Abdominal Injuries
- Head and Spine Injuries
- Near Drowning
- Lightning
- Heat-Related Illness
- Hypothermia and Cold-Related Illness/Injury
- Genitourinary Emergencies
- Psychology in the Wilderness
- Neurological Emergencies
- Intro to Diving Medicine
- Altitude Illness
- Avalanche Risk and Avoidance
- Law and the Wilderness
- Poisoning Emergencies
- Evacuation Guidelines
- Improvised Litters & Carries
- Skin, Wilderness Dentistry, Illness and Injury of the Eyes
Course Format
This course blends theoretical learning with practical application. It is offered in a hybrid format, which includes 40+ hours of online learning, followed by a minimum of 36 hours of in class education. Our courses are taught alongside adventure activities, global travel, survival courses, and speciality outdoor training.
WFR Recertification
Participants are able to re-certify their WFR certificate within 3 years of class completion. This abridged course refreshes essential topics and skills covered in the full class. Proof of current certification required. While there is no governing body for a WFR certificate, MedTreks International accepts organziations that follow WMS guidelines. If you are unsure if your current WFR certificate qualifies, please reach out to info@medtreksinternational.com.
This hybrid course has 20+ hours of online coursework and a minimum of 16 hours in person.
This class is provided through our partner AdventureMed and follows the WFR guidelines set by the WMS.
The curriculum follows medical best practice as dictated by organizations such as the WMS, WHO, CDC, TCCC, AHA, and is authored by leading professionals in the industry. Learn more about AdventureMed here.
Certification and Credits
To earn the following certifications, students must complete the minimum time requirement for a WFR class, 72 hours. Additionally, both a proctored written and practical examination must be successfully completed.
Upon completion of this course, students are eligible for:
- WFR certificate, valid for two years (with a one year grace period)
- CPR/BLS plus AED certificate, valid for two years
- This certification is provided by AdventureMed
- Epinephrine auto-injector certificate, valid for two years (upon request)
- Fellowship in the Academy of Wilderness Medicine (FAWM) credit
- To learn more about FAWM, please visit wms.org
- The WFR recertification course is NOT accredited for FAWM