What is the primary goal of a WFR when dealing with dislocations?

The primary goal of a Wilderness First Responder when dealing with dislocations is to reduce the dislocation and restore function. This involves repositioning the dislocated joint back into its proper alignment, which helps alleviate pain and allows for the possibility of normal movement and function thereafter.

Addressing a dislocation involves an understanding of anatomy, the mechanism of injury, and appropriate techniques to minimize further injury. While immobilizing the limb can be an important step, it ideally comes after attempting to restore proper alignment to facilitate recovery.

Minimizing pain is important, but the priority is to first correct the dislocation since proper alignment will often lead to decreased pain as well. Immediate surgical intervention is not within the scope of practice for a Wilderness First Responder, as they operate in remote settings where such medical resources are not readily available. The focus is on providing the best possible care within the constraints of the wilderness environment until professional medical help can be obtained.