ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid

In a world where outdoor adventures beckon with promises of thrill and exploration, it’s essential to equip oneself with the necessary skills to navigate potential emergencies. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a seasoned camper, or an outdoor enthusiast in general, understanding the fundamentals of first aid is paramount. Enter the ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid, a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to handle emergencies in outdoor settings.

The allure of the great outdoors often comes hand in hand with inherent risks. From minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries such as sprains, fractures, or encounters with wildlife, outdoor environments present unique challenges when it comes to administering first aid. Unlike urban settings where medical assistance may be readily available, remote outdoor locations may require individuals to rely solely on their own skills and resources until help arrives. This is where outdoor first aid training becomes invaluable.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid is a recognized qualification that provides participants with the essential knowledge and techniques to effectively respond to emergencies in outdoor environments. Developed by experts in the field of outdoor education and first aid, this program covers a wide range of topics essential for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid is a valuable qualification for anyone who ventures into the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, investing in outdoor first aid training could mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening situation. By equipping yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge, you not only enhance your own safety but also contribute to a culture of preparedness and responsibility in outdoor pursuits.

Course overview

Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for a ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid may vary depending on the institution offering the program. However, typical entry requirements for such a course may include:

Candidates must typically be at least 18 years old to enroll in the Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid.
While outdoor first aid training does not typically have strict physical fitness requirements, participants should be able to engage in practical activities and scenarios without significant limitations.
While not always necessary, some training providers may prefer or recommend that participants have some prior experience or knowledge related to outdoor activities.
Since the course is conducted in English, participants should have a proficient level of English language skills to effectively engage with course materials, participate in discussions, and complete written assignments.

Study Units

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Introduction to Outdoor First Aid

Understanding of Outdoor First Aid Context: Gain knowledge about the unique challenges and considerations of providing first aid in outdoor environments, including remote locations and varying weather conditions.
Awareness of Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with administering first aid outdoors, including consent, duty of care, and Good Samaritan laws.
Recognition of the Importance of Preparedness: Appreciate the significance of being adequately prepared for outdoor activities, including carrying appropriate first aid kits and understanding emergency response protocols.
Foundational Knowledge of First Aid Principles: Develop a basic understanding of first aid principles and their application in outdoor settings, laying the groundwork for further learning in specific areas.

Assessment and Management of Outdoor Incidents

Scene Assessment Skills: Acquire the ability to assess outdoor environments effectively to identify hazards, prioritize actions, and ensure scene safety for both responders and casualties.
Decision-Making Under Pressure: Develop skills in making rapid, informed decisions in high-pressure situations, considering factors such as casualty condition, available resources, and environmental risks.
Effective Communication: Learn techniques for communicating clearly and efficiently with both casualties and emergency services, ensuring accurate information is conveyed and assistance is obtained promptly.
Coordination of Response Efforts: Understand the importance of coordinating response efforts with other responders, bystanders, and authorities to optimize outcomes in outdoor incidents.

Wound Care and Infection Control

Identification of Wound Types: Develop the ability to recognize different types of wounds commonly encountered in outdoor activities, including cuts, abrasions, punctures, and lacerations.
Proper Wound Management Techniques: Learn appropriate wound cleaning, disinfection, and dressing techniques to minimize the risk of infection and promote optimal wound healing.
Application of First Aid Supplies: Gain proficiency in using various first aid supplies and materials to manage wounds effectively, including bandages, dressings, and wound closure devices.
Prevention of Complications: Understand the importance of ongoing wound care and monitoring to prevent complications such as infection, delayed healing, and scarring.

Treatment of Common Outdoor Injuries

Recognition of Common Injuries: Develop the ability to recognize and assess common outdoor injuries, including sprains, strains, fractures, dislocations, and musculoskeletal injuries.
Immobilization and Splinting Techniques: Learn techniques for immobilizing injured limbs and applying splints to stabilize fractures and dislocations, reducing the risk of further injury and promoting comfort.
Pain Management Strategies: Understand various pain management strategies, including rest, elevation, ice, compression, and over-the-counter pain relievers, to alleviate discomfort and support recovery.
Safe Transportation of Injured Individuals: Gain knowledge of safe transportation methods for injured individuals in outdoor environments, including improvised carries and the use of stretchers and evacuation equipment.

Medical Emergencies in Outdoor Environments

Recognition of Medical Emergencies: Develop the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of common medical emergencies encountered in outdoor environments, including allergic reactions, asthma attacks, heart conditions, and diabetic emergencies.
Initial First Aid Interventions: Learn appropriate first aid interventions for managing medical emergencies in outdoor settings, including administering medications, providing oxygen therapy, and performing CPR and AED use.
Effective Communication with Emergency Services: Understand the importance of clear and concise communication with emergency services, providing essential information about the nature of the medical emergency, the location, and any relevant patient details.
Coordination of Advanced Care: Gain knowledge of procedures for coordinating advanced medical care and evacuation, including establishing landing zones for helicopters, guiding ground-based rescue teams, and facilitating timely access to medical facilities.

Environmental Emergencies

Understanding of Environmental Hazards: Develop an understanding of environmental factors that can pose risks to outdoor enthusiasts, including extreme temperatures, altitude sickness, dehydration, and hypothermia.
Prevention Strategies: Learn strategies for preventing environmental emergencies through proper planning, hydration, clothing selection, and adaptation to changing weather conditions.
Recognition of Environmental Emergencies: Develop the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of environmental emergencies, including heat-related illnesses, cold-related injuries, and altitude sickness.
First Aid Interventions for Environmental Emergencies: Acquire skills in providing first aid interventions for environmental emergencies, including rewarming techniques, fluid replacement, and managing heat and cold-related symptoms.

Emergency Planning and Preparedness

Development of Emergency Action Plans: Learn how to develop comprehensive emergency action plans tailored to specific outdoor activities, environments, and participant demographics.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Gain skills in conducting risk assessments for outdoor activities, identifying potential hazards, and implementing mitigation strategies to minimize risks to participants.
Communication and Coordination: Understand the importance of effective communication and coordination in emergency situations, including establishing communication protocols, emergency signals, and response procedures.
Training and Equipment Requirements: Learn about the training and equipment requirements for outdoor first aid responders, including the selection and maintenance of first aid kits, communication devices, and emergency shelters.

Future Progression

Future Progression for ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid:

Advanced First Aid Certifications: Building upon the foundational skills acquired in the Level 3 Award, individuals can pursue advanced first aid certifications that provide more in-depth training in specific areas of interest. This may include courses such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Wilderness EMT (WEMT), or Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS), which offer advanced training in wilderness medicine and remote medical care.
Outdoor Leadership and Guiding Qualifications: For those interested in pursuing careers as outdoor leaders, guides, or instructors, obtaining additional qualifications in outdoor leadership and guiding can be beneficial. Programs such as the Mountain Leader Award, Rock Climbing Instructor certification, or Canoe and Kayak Leader qualification provide specialized training in leading groups in outdoor environments and managing risk effectively.
Specialized Outdoor Skills Training: Depending on individual interests and career aspirations, participants may choose to pursue further training in specific outdoor activities or skills. This could include courses in rock climbing, mountaineering, whitewater rafting, wilderness survival, navigation, or backcountry skiing, among others. Specialized skills training enhances competency in specific outdoor pursuits and may open up opportunities for employment or volunteer work in related fields.
Higher Education in Outdoor Studies or Wilderness Medicine: Individuals seeking a deeper understanding of outdoor education, adventure sports, or wilderness medicine may consider pursuing higher education degrees or diplomas in related fields. Programs in outdoor studies, adventure education, outdoor recreation management, or wilderness medicine provide theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to careers in outdoor leadership, education, research, or advocacy.
Volunteer and Professional Experience: Gaining practical experience through volunteering or working in outdoor education, adventure sports, or emergency response settings is invaluable for career development. Whether through volunteer search and rescue organizations, outdoor education programs, summer camps, or outdoor adventure companies, hands-on experience allows individuals to apply and refine their skills, build networks, and gain credibility within the industry.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Continuous learning and professional development are essential for staying current with industry trends, best practices, and advancements in outdoor first aid and related fields. Participating in workshops, seminars, conferences, and online courses focused on topics such as risk management, leadership skills, outdoor education pedagogy, or medical advancements ensures ongoing growth and competence as an outdoor professional.
Specialization or Leadership Roles: As individuals gain experience and expertise in outdoor first aid and related disciplines, they may pursue opportunities for specialization or leadership roles within their organizations or communities. This could involve becoming a lead instructor for outdoor first aid courses, taking on management or administrative roles within outdoor education programs, or contributing to the development of industry standards and guidelines.

By exploring these future progression pathways and continuing to invest in their personal and professional development, individuals who have completed the ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid can advance their careers, expand their knowledge and skills, and make meaningful contributions to the field of outdoor education, adventure sports, and emergency response.

FAQs

Who should enroll in this course?

Outdoor enthusiasts, adventure guides, educators, and anyone who ventures into remote outdoor settings should enroll to enhance their ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Participants should typically be at least 18 years old, possess basic literacy and numeracy skills, and have an interest in outdoor activities. No formal first aid qualifications are usually required.

What is the duration of the course?

ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid is 3 Days 9 Hours training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

Is the course conducted online or in-person?

ICTQual Level 3 Award in the Fundamentals of Outdoor First Aid is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Are there any assessments or exams in the course?

Yes, assessments include quizzes consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%