ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA)
The ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) is a comprehensive qualification designed to equip learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to manage medical emergencies in outdoor and remote environments. This course is ideal for individuals who work or participate in activities in rural or wilderness settings, where immediate access to medical facilities may be limited.
Throughout the course, learners will gain practical experience in assessing and managing a range of injuries and medical emergencies, including fractures, dislocations, and medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes. The training also covers environmental injuries like hypothermia and heatstroke, ensuring that learners are prepared to respond effectively to a variety of situations.
The OFA qualification is delivered through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on practical sessions, providing learners with the confidence and competence to act decisively in emergency situations. Successful completion of the course results in a nationally recognised qualification, valid for three years, demonstrating the learner’s ability to provide first aid in outdoor environments.
Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA), consists of 4 mandatory units.
- Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a First Aider in Outdoor Environments
- Managing an Unresponsive Casualty in Outdoor Settings
- Managing Injuries and Medical Emergencies in Outdoor Environments
- Outdoor Incident Management and Evacuation Procedures
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
1. Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a First Aider in Outdoor Environments
- Identify the key responsibilities of an outdoor first aider.
- Understand the importance of risk assessment and hazard identification in outdoor settings.
- Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate first aid equipment for outdoor environments.
- Recognise the need for consent when providing first aid.
- Understand the legal and ethical considerations in outdoor first aid.
2. Managing an Unresponsive Casualty in Outdoor Setting
- Conduct a primary survey to assess the casualty’s condition.
- Determine the need for resuscitation and perform CPR if necessary.
- Place a casualty in the recovery position safely.
- Monitor the casualty’s breathing and pulse regularly.
- Recognise signs of life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest
3. Managing Injuries and Medical Emergencies in Outdoor Environments
- Identify and treat various injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and sprains.
- Manage bleeding and shock effectively.
- Provide first aid for burns, scalds, and other soft tissue injuries.
- Recognise and respond to medical emergencies such as asthma attacks, seizures, and diabetic emergencies.
- Understand the principles of wound care and infection control
4. Outdoor Incident Management and Evacuation Procedures
- Assess the scene of an incident for safety and potential hazards.
- Implement appropriate evacuation procedures in outdoor settings.
- Use communication equipment effectively to summon assistance.
- Coordinate with emergency services and provide accurate information.
- Understand the principles of casualty management during evacuation
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (OFA) not only equips learners with essential first aid skills for outdoor and remote environments but also opens pathways for further professional development. This qualification serves as a stepping stone for advancing within outdoor safety roles or specialising in higher-level first aid and emergency response training.
Potential Career Opportunities
Learners who achieve this qualification may progress into roles such as:
- Outdoor Activity Instructor: Leading groups in outdoor activities while ensuring safety and well-being.
- Wilderness Guide: Guiding individuals or groups through remote natural environments.
- Environmental Educator: Teaching about nature and conservation in outdoor settings.
- Expedition Leader: Planning and leading extended outdoor journeys.
- Emergency Response Team Member: Providing first aid and emergency response in outdoor incidents.
Opportunities for Further Study
Following successful completion of this course, learners may consider:
- Level 3 Award in Emergency Outdoor First Aid (EOFA): Advanced training for professionals operating in environments where emergency medical support is limited.
- Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid: Focused on first aid for infants and children, suitable for individuals working in childcare or educational settings.
- Level 3 Certificate in Health and Safety in the Workplace: Expanding knowledge in workplace safety and health regulations.
- Specialist courses in Automated External Defibrillation (AED), Basic Life Support (BLS), or Oxygen Therapy: Enhancing skills in specific areas of emergency medical response.
Benefits of Progression
Advancing through these qualifications offers several benefits:
- Enhances Outdoor Safety and Compliance: Ensures preparedness for a wide range of outdoor emergencies.
- Boosts Employability and Professional Credibility: Demonstrates commitment to safety and professional development.
- Expands First Aid Knowledge: Equips individuals with advanced skills to handle complex medical situations.
- Opens Doors to Advanced Outdoor and Emergency Response Roles: Provides opportunities to take on leadership and specialised positions in outdoor and emergency services.
By building upon the OFA qualification, learners can enhance their expertise and career prospects in the field of outdoor safety and emergency response.