A man wearing a cycle helmet is sitting in the garden. He looks confused and has a bleeding wound on his thigh. The blood is flowing, but he is still trying to answer a few questions. Only one thing is clear: he needs help.
Fortunately, it’s just a drill. Dani plays an injured person in Cel Dubois’ first aid course. Even if there is no real emergency here, accidents are part of every journey. With a little luck and caution, we may be spared ourselves, but it is important to be prepared – especially when travelling to remote areas and wanting to help others in an emergency.
Our experience? We have already completed a few paramedic courses in the army. Nevertheless, this refresher course was worth it. After all, the dangers we encounter when travelling are often different to those at home – and the nearest doctor is not always close by, let alone a rescue helicopter.
In the Break-A-Way Outdoor medic course, we learnt how to better assess situations: When can we act on our own and when do we need professional help? As Cel jokingly emphasises: ‘Sometimes there’s only one liquid left that can help – petrol!’ But seriously: in the event of a heart attack or stroke, it can be crucial to recognise the signs in good time. It may then be enough to take an aspirin as a prophylactic, pack everything up and seek medical help immediately. But careful: in the event of a stroke, never take aspirin – after all, without an MRI we don’t know what exactly caused it. And this thing doesn’t fit in the car.
What should you always have with you when travelling? Many prescription medicines are available over the counter in South America, but not everything is available everywhere. It makes sense to have a few important medicines such as antibiotics, painkillers and Bepanthen-Plus in your luggage – in addition to the usual first-aid kit items. Disposable gloves should also be to hand to protect yourself in case you arrive at an accident.
By the way don’t forget that the local doctors know a lot about the common illnesses in the area. They are often also equipped with certain medicines that are difficult to obtain in Europe. It helps to take a basic supply with you and top it up locally if necessary. But here, too, it is important to know the symptoms and react early.
We have reminded ourselves that helping others can be a challenge, especially on long and remote journeys, as the conditions are not the same as in Europe. That’s why it’s worth brushing up on your first aid skills. Cel definitely helped us with this, answered our questions and gave us valuable tips on (self-)help while travelling. So if you’re heading off into the unknown soon, take a look at her webseite or contact her – it’s worth it! Or maybe just have a look on what courses you can find in your country.
The medical content of this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. No liability is accepted for its accuracy or consequences.