How to Stay Calm During Medical Emergencies in the Wild?

Remain Calm and Assess the Situation

In a medical emergency, panic can lead to poor decision making and increased risk of further harm. As a wilderness first responder, your training has prepared you to stay calm and assess the situation quickly. Take 30 seconds to 1 minute to gather information, assess the patient’s condition, and identify the type of injury or illness. Use the “ABCDE” method to evaluate the patient: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure.

Use Your Training and Follow Protocols

Your WFR training has equipped you with the knowledge and skills to respond to various medical emergencies. When assessing the patient, use your training to identify the most critical issue and follow established protocols for treatment. For example, if the patient is suffering from cardiac arrest, follow the American Heart Association’s (AHA) guidelines for CPR, including the recommended 30:2 ratio of compressions to breaths.

Communicate with Your Team and Seek Additional Help if Necessary

As a wilderness first responder, you may be working alone or with a team. In either case, it’s essential to communicate clearly and concisely with your team members to ensure everyone is on the same page. If the situation is beyond your training or if additional resources are needed, don’t hesitate to call for help or seek assistance from a nearby guide or medical professional.