WMA Celebrates Another Year!

“As I celebrate my fourth year as the owner of WMA International, I am grateful for what we’ve accomplished together. In 2024 alone, we welcomed over 50 new instructors to our global team, expanded our courses across Canada and Europe, and we expect to reach over 11,500 students (an 11% increase from 2023). These advancements reflect the dedication and passion of this incredible community. Here’s to the journey ahead, as we continue to inspire, teach, innovate, and lead in wilderness medicine worldwide.”

-Abby Rowe (President)

We had a great 2024 together and we’re looking forward to continuing to serve our students and elevate the field of wilderness medicine in 2025!

The Year Ahead

Are you interested in being a part of the global community of wilderness medical professionals? Stay tuned for future Instructor Trainings as we prepare for the next year.

All Upcoming Courses

SURVEY

Your Feedback on Learning Materials

At WMA International, we’re committed to enhancing your learning experience. To better understand your preferences, we invite you to participate in a brief survey regarding the format of our field guides and textbooks. Your input will help us determine whether printed or digital materials are most suitable for your learning needs.

Thank you for sharing your feedback with us!

Take the Survey

COURSE Highlight

Wilderness First Responder Recertification with ASL Interpreters Provided

We are excited to offer a unique opportunity for Deaf and hard of hearing students at our upcoming Wilderness First Responder Recertification course, taking place from January 11-13, 2024, at Zoar Outdoor. This course will have ASL interpreters provided, ensuring an inclusive learning environment for all students.

Designed to provide a comprehensive review and retesting of the WFR curriculum, this three-day, 24-hour course also includes a CPR update and integrates the latest protocols and treatment options. Whether you’re renewing your WFR certification or just looking to refresh your skills, this course is a great chance to deepen your knowledge and practical abilities.

The addition of ASL interpreters creates a more accessible space for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students while also drawing in a diverse group of learners. Please help us spread the word to those who may require an ASL-interpreted course.

Course Details

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATS TO OUR INSTRUCTOR, STEVE HAHN, ON A YUKON 125 AWARD!

The Government of Yukon is celebrating the territory’s 125th anniversary by awarding 125 medals to Yukoners who exemplify leadership, reconciliation, and significant contributions to the wellbeing of the territory. Among the recipients is Steve Hahn, a flight nurse and paramedic, recognized for his exceptional leadership in developing international-standard policies and guidelines, enhancing critical care education, and improving communication and care plans across the Yukon. Congratulations to Steve on this well-deserved recognition!

Steve teaching at a recent instructor meeting.

Read The Announcement Here

CASE STUDY

Avalanche

We offer the following case study to refresh your wilderness medicine skills and consider how risk management influences decision-making. You might find that it’s a great time to review your WMA International textbook to make sure you are ready to Face Any Challenge Anywhere.

Scene:

A mountain rescue team responded to an avalanche incident where a 50-year-old backcountry skier triggered an avalanche after dropping over a cornice. He was swept approximately 500 feet over a small cliff band and through a stand of spruce trees, coming to rest partially buried from the waist down. His skiing partner located him several minutes later and reported the incident via 911 at 16:45.

Rescue personnel arrived at the trailhead approximately 1 mile from the scene at 17:08. Weather conditions were clear with temperatures in the low 20s °F (-6 to -5°C) and light winds. The scene was on a popular northeast-facing bowl at an elevation of 10,450’ (3185m). Sunset was at 17:51, with darkness approaching rapidly. Avalanche danger was reported as moderate, with skier-triggered avalanches possible near and above the treeline.

Subjective:

The patient was alert and oriented, complaining of severe left thigh pain. He denied any allergies, medications, or past medical conditions. He reported no neck or back pain, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or numbness. The skiing partner noted that the patient had not shown signs of shivering initially.

Objective:

Upon initial evaluation by the hasty team, the patient was found alert and oriented, complaining of severe pain in the left thigh. A secondary survey identified a closed femur fracture with visible deformity, tenderness, and swelling, though the pelvis was stable. Distal circulation and sensation were intact, and the ski boot was not removed to prevent further injury. The patient displayed early signs of cold response, including shivering and slightly cool skin, but no additional injuries were noted. Respirations were unlabored yet irregular due to shivering, and the radial pulse was strong and palpable.

What do you think? Is this serious or not serious? Drop your thoughts in the comments section of this Case Study on our Facebook or Instagram. Stay tuned on those platforms for an assessment and follow-up discussion!