Wilderness EMT Certification: Skills for Remote Medical Emergencies

When an emergency occurs in the backcountry, an immediate medical response is often impossible. A person certified as a wilderness EMT is trained to deal with medical emergencies that occur in remote locations. Backcountry park rangers, outdoor school expedition leaders and others who work in remote locations are just a few examples of people that may be certified as a wilderness EMT.

Definition

• A wilderness EMT is trained to handle emergencies in a remote location where immediate evacuation is not possible.

Certification

• Certification as a wilderness EMT requires about 180 hours of coursework. Wilderness EMT certification involves participation in an intensive month-long course.

Licensing Requirements

• Becoming a licensed wilderness EMT requires taking and passing a written and practical exam. Requirements vary from state-to-state. Licenses (as well as certifications) are valid for a period of three years.

Coursework

• Among the topics covered in a wilderness EMT course are the skills necessary to treat bleeding, shock, head injuries, spinal injuries, fractures and sprains, hypothermia, heat exhaustion, altitude sickness, burns, and search and rescue.

Schools

• One of the most respected schools that offers a wilderness EMT certification program is the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), which hosts courses at locations across the United States and the world.