BRIDGE - WAFA TO WFR
Summary
The WAFA to WFR Bridge course upgrades the Wilderness Advanced First Aid to a Wilderness First Responder
in 4 days.
Current WMA International Wilderness EMS Upgrade students may also use this course to recertify the wilderness portion of their certification.
This course is presented in 36 to 40 hours over 4 days. Typically, mornings are devoted to lectures, discussions and quizzes, with afternoons devoted to outdoor practical skills and scenarios. Evenings are reserved for study and assignments.
Course Content
- General Principles of Wilderness & Rescue Medicine
- Patient Assessment System
- Basic Life Support (Healthcare Provider-level CPR
- Circulatory System
- Nervous System
- Respiratory System
- Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Spine Management
- Thermoregulation
- Drowning
- Lightning Injuries
- Altitude Illness
- Wounds and Burns
- Allergies & Anaphylaxis
- Environmental Toxins
- Lifting, Moving & Extrication
- Backcountry Medicine
- Medical & Legal Issues
Customization
As part of Wilderness Medical Associates International's commitment to your medical rescue training, our instructors and management will consult your group's needs and teach according to your group's backgrounds, environments, and experience. Simulations and hands-on activities will be realistic and relevant. Relevant adult education is incorporated directly into our curriculum to maximize learning of medical theory into practical skills.
Certifications & Recertifications
All eligible students who successfully complete the WAFA to WFR Bridge course will receive certification in:
- Wilderness First Responder
- Healthcare Provider-Level CPR or equivalent
All WMA International certifications remain valid for three years.
This certification can be used to challenge the DOT First Responder Exam, which is at the
discretion of the local or state EMS authorities. The course is registered for 36 hours of
continuing education credit through the CAPCE.
Within three years, graduates may recertify by retaking the Bridge (WAFA to WFR) or
by completing the WFR Recertification course.
Included Materials
All teaching materials will be available at no additional cost. Students will receive the following materials on this course:
- The Field Guide of Wilderness Medicine & Rescue
- SOAP Notebook
- Wilderness and Rescue Medicine Handbook
- Wilderness First Responder Class Notes
- Wilderness Medicine Workbook
Evaluation
Successful completion with certification is based on: Attendance, homework assignments, written quizzes,
demonstrated proficiency with practical skills and a succesful grade on a final written exam.
Wilderness Medical Associates International is committed to making reasonable accommodation to any student with special needs.
Prerequisites
Current Wilderness Advanced First Aid certification within three years of the Bridge course.
When using this course to recertify, students must have proof of a valid WMA International
WFR or WEMS certification or a valid WFR certification from another organization, whose original
training was at least 64 hours in length. Proof of certification is required.
Students will have access to the pre-course assignments 2-4 weeks prior to course.
Students should complete the study guide in preparation for the course. It is designed to
familiarize students with the essential points in the curriculum.
Students must be at least 16 years old to participate in this course.
Those under 18 years of age require the written consent of a parent or guardian.