First Aid courses

This is what it covers. Some of it is just 'revise', and some of it relates to paperwork which I woudn't need to worry about. The rest of it looks OK, though the last line seems to me to show a distinct lack of confidence in my abilities!

Role and responsibility of the First Aider
Introduction to remote area first aid
Revise management of an unconscious casualty
Revise respiratory problems
Priorities of care and documentation in remote areas
Managing minor illnesses
Conditions affecting consciousness
Identifying and managing skin conditions
Recognising and managing broken bones, muscle and joint injuries
Recognising and managing spinal and back injuries
Effectively managing casualties with gastro-intestinal problems
Managing heat & cold induced injury/illnesses
Extended care and fluid balance
Managing ear injuries
Selecting first aid kits and equipment
Principles of triage and care of the deceased

Thanks Robin, I have no plans to use this qualification for anything, I'll keep the Senior Cert up to date because my employer wants me to and is paying for that bit. As for the remote area training, once you know it then you know it. (and I'll have the book you mention). Hopefully it will be the sort of knowledge I never have to use but is comforting to know.

Nick

How would that compare to occupational 1st aid? I first did it at St Johns Perth and was a 3 day course. I then re did it about a year ago on site and it took 2 days - believe me there is a massive difference in what you learn

I agree with Dave on this one........the courses often have the same curriculum, BUT....would you rather hear it and practice it all with someone who has had practical experience with REAL people or someone who has only experience with a mannikin?

The other thing obviously missing from this course is how to deal with 'cardiovascular emergencies', ie Heart attack, angina etc.. Very common, especially with all the 'Grey Nomads' travelling this great country... 8-)

Cheers,

Mark

Thanks Jackie, I had a look at the website but WA is not well covered, there is only one Basic course and it's full. It is also quite expensive compared to the St John's course, and it's not assessed - I need an assessed course because I am too lazy otherwise!

There are a couple of topics there which I have jotted down to ensure that they are covered on the Outback Areas course so thanks for that.

Nick

This provider is the biggest and best provider of wilderness first aid courses in Australia. They also work overseas as well.

All outdoor education instructors and teachers who lead outdoor trips for schools or commercial adventure activity organisations etc will have done this course. I did one many years ago, when I was teaching and it was very comprehensive (to a point) and included underlying pathophysiology of a variety of conditions as well as the principles of first aid and ongoing care when medical help is a long way away.

The downside is the cost.....you could probably give your car a fair dose of ARB for what they cost. Also their best courses are residential and aften take as much as a week or so.

Cheers,

Mark