NPA used for suction

   During our WEFR course we introduce the skill of suctioning a compromised airway of a casualty. For the Wilderness First Aid level of training the best was to clear an airway is to roll the casualty over and let gravity do the dirty work.
   That is still the best option for the medical professional. The difference is that it is important to have a few more skills in your tool box to deal with situations where rolling a casualty might not be the best option.

Wilderness First Responder Course August 2011

We have just finished up with the latest WEFR course. We had eight students and three instructors come from around Ireland come to Killarney for six days of intense medical education.

Improvised head mirror

   Before the use of electronic lights, physicians used a head mirror to look into the patients, eyes, ears, nose and throat. They would have this mirror strapped to their head all day. In fact, most of us older types can remember going to the GP and having them use this device to exam you.
   In the wilderness improvisation is the key. How can one use this obsolete technology in the practise of Austere Medicine?