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Splinting 101: Bone, Muscle, and Joint Injuries The main focus of the assessment of a bone, muscle or joint injury is to determine if the injury is significant enough to require a visit to a medical professional (hospital/clinic) or if it can be managed by the patient with self care. To simplify this assessment we classify bone, muscle and joint injuries into two categories Stable and Unstable. The main assessment criteria is the patient's ability to use the affected limb: With stable injuries the patient is able to use the affected limb (stand and walk with leg, lift an object...

STOP THE BLEED: Controlling Life Threatening External Bleeding This article will review the step by step process of controlling major external bleeding. We reference the most up to date STOP THE BLEED and TCCC guidelines for this process (see references below for more in depth knowledge).Wound packing and pressure dressing: STEP 1: CALL EMS 9-1-1 If you identify life threatening bleeding (blood spurting or pouring form the patient) immediately call EMS 9-1-1 (use speaker phone option to remain hands free if possible). STEP 2: EXPOSE Expose bleeding by cutting away clothing with trauma shears near bleeding to locate source of...

                                       American Dog Tick                           Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick)         As the weather gets warmer after a long winter many of us choose to get out into nature and explore the vast incredible natural places across Canada. With this exploration comes some risks such as tick-borne illness spread from infected ticks. This resource is compiled for the most recent evidence-based information on tick borne illness, prevention, and treatment in Canada. Always consult a doctor if you feel you may have contracted a tick borne illness at the earliest opportunity to ensure the best treatment options can...

This is an overview if the commonly seen items in First Aid Kits and what you would use them for. We see students in our first aid courses that have never been given a good overview of what the items in a quality first aid kit should be and what each of those items can be used for.   Basic First Aid components: Abdominal Pad A large sterile dressing that can be applied over a large wound and in combination with direct pressure can be used to control bleeding. Alcohol Swabs These swabs can be used to clean first aid...

This video is an overview of useful medications that can be used in Wilderness and Remote environments when access medical care is delayed. All these medications can also be useful in the home setting and are available over the counter at any pharmacy for purchase.   Wilderness/Remote Medication Guide Over the counter medications can provide symptom relief and bridge the gap to higher level medical care. Below is a list of useful over the counter medications that can be purchased at any pharmacy and are good to have on hand in the house, cottage, on wilderness trips, and remote locations....