In a wilderness context, what is a WFR trained to do for dislocations?

A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is trained to recognize and manage certain types of dislocations in a wilderness context, which includes the ability to reduce dislocations of the shoulder, jaw, fingers, toes, and patella, as indicated in the correct answer.

Reducing a dislocation refers to the process of gently manipulating the joint back into its normal position. This skill is vital in a wilderness setting where access to advanced medical care can be limited or delayed. Properly reducing dislocations can alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent further complications while awaiting evacuation or additional medical treatment.

The emphasis in wilderness medicine is on preserving the safety and well-being of the patient until more comprehensive care can be accessed. Therefore, the ability to perform such procedures is within the scope of practice for a WFR, ensuring that patients receive prompt and effective care in remote environments.

Other options like performing open surgery are beyond the training scope of a WFR and are not applicable in wilderness scenarios. Ignoring the injury is not a responsible choice, as dislocations require attention to avoid long-term damage. Simply splinting the affected area may provide stabilization but does not address the underlying issue of the dislocation itself.