Course ethos
This course is designed to enhance your understanding and knowledge and give you plenty of hands on practical experience. No prior knowledge or qualification is necessary as we start with the basics and move towards the techniques and understanding that enable you to make decisions and escalate interventions in the field. Our principle remains “Advanced at the Basics” rather than basic at the advanced.  For this reason, all invasive skill sessions will be led by our Doctor or a state registered paramedic to ensure that you follow best practice and have plenty of opportunity to practice and gain confidence in the techniques. By the end of the course you should feel confident in your ability and able to follow best practice guidelines. 
Certificated by ITC, an HSE approved organisation and QCA approved awarding body.  Certificate valid for 3 years.

Why Choose this course?
• A proven track record
• Excellent reviews
• Efficient and prompt return of certificates on successful completion
• Experienced and qualified trainers.
• A unique way of training

Course outline and Syllabus

Day One
Introductions and legal aspects / BS8848, Remit of qualification / Medical indemnity / Medications Act / Confidentiality, Record keeping and how to present yourself (perception of skill level), Measuring and monitoring vital signs, Use of  stethoscope,  Blood Pressure,  Pulse Oximetry, Blood Glucose,  Pupil response, GCS & AVPU coma scales, Taking a history (Part 1), Primary and Secondary Survey, Safe Airway Positions and Airway management, (CPR) Defibrillation, Patient assessment (Part 1), Taking a history (Part 2) Physical examination.
Much of the day will be practical demonstrations, workshops and scenarios.  We believe strongly that you have ample time to become confident in all the necessary practical
skills. Workshops are in groups no greater than 6 people.

Day Two
Circulation issues, External Bleeding and Hypovolemic shock, Tourniquets (when & when not to use), Bandaging practical, Fracture and dislocation management, Professional and improvised splinting, Head injuries, Helmet removal, Eye injuries and snow blindness, Ear, nose and throat & MxFx, Dentistry overseas, Spinal care workshop, Extrication / Stiff neck collars / spine boards / stretchers, Improvised alternatives, Chest trauma, Abdominal trauma, Burns and blisters, Trauma scenarios outside as a single rescuer, pair and team. Late finish on day two (2100)

Day Three
Group workshops, Patient assessment / taking a history / physical examination, Lecture on remote medical assistance & communication systems, Lecture of the use of antibiotics, Gastrointestinal problems overseas, Respiratory problems, Common medical emergencies, Tropical diseases (Mosquitos, worms, flies etc), Deep vein thrombosis recognition and prevention, Urinary tract infections, Female only problems, Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis and use of epipens, Bugs, bites and stings. Environment specific workshops Altitude / desert / Arctic / tropical / Diving. Management of non life threatening injury in the field - An introduction to Physiotherapy.
This session will be led by Laura Barrell of Total Physio based in Bristol. Laura specialises in sports physiotherapy and has travelled extensively in Asia.  Laura is an adventure racer and has taken part in some extreme events over the past few years.

Day Four - Invasive skills
Blister treatment practical, Wound assessment practical Wound cleaning practical, Sterilisation of instruments practical, Steri strips & suturing practical, Pain management lecture, IM injections practical,  Fluid replacement lecture and practical. 

Next course will be in Devon over the 4-day Easter weekend in 2010. April 2-5th. Cost £375 + VAT

The Expedition First Aid course is designed for those remote from help.The course is delivered by Adventure First Aid, to find out more information call us on 0844 3571426.

A must for small and large scale expeditions, expedition members, expedition leaders, field scientists and university staff who lead field work programmes overseas.