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.