Wilderness First Aid (WFA)

The Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course, offered by Nepal Outdoor Academy, is designed to equip individuals with critical medical skills for managing emergencies in remote environments typical of Nepal, where access to professional medical assistance is often delayed by one hour or more.

Moving beyond standard urban first aid, this course addresses injuries and illnesses specifically encountered in backcountry settings such as mountains, jungles, and river corridors. The curriculum emphasizes a systematic approach to patient assessment using the Patient Assessment System (PAS), enabling participants to quickly identify and prioritize life threats under challenging conditions.

The course heavily features hands-on practice and realistic scenario simulations relevant to activities like trekking, climbing, and paddling. Participants will learn practical techniques for controlling bleeding, stabilizing fractures and sprains using improvised materials, treating environmental emergencies common in Nepal's varied climate (hypothermia, heatstroke, lightning), and recognizing significant medical issues.

A core component is developing decision-making skills for patient care when resources are limited and evacuation may be prolonged or complex. This training fosters critical thinking and builds confidence, empowering recreational users and leaders of short trips to provide effective initial care until professional medical help arrives. It serves as a foundational standard for responsible backcountry travel safety in Nepal.

Course Key Information:

• Duration: Typically 2 days (approximately 16-20 hours)
• Location: Varies (combines classroom facilities with access to outdoor training areas)
• Certification: Wilderness First Aid (WFA), generally valid for 2-3 years. CPR certification may be integrated or offered separately.
• Prerequisites: None. Minimum age requirement usually applies (typically 16 years).
• Ideal For: Recreational outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, backpackers, climbers, paddlers, cyclists), camp counselors, trip participants, seasonal outdoor workers, and anyone venturing into remote areas.