Which dislocations can a WFR be trained to reduce?

A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is trained to reduce certain dislocations under specific circumstances, primarily focusing on conditions where the risk of complications is minimized, and the benefits of reduction outweigh the risks.

Dislocations of the jaw and patella can be effectively reduced by WFRs. The jaw presents as a common and often straightforward joint to manage due to its anatomical structure, and the patella can be reduced using specific techniques that are safe to apply in a wilderness setting. The training emphasizes the importance of recognizing which dislocations can be addressed in the field while ensuring appropriate care and transport for more complex injuries.

While shoulder dislocations are commonly known, WFR guidelines encourage practitioners to assess the situation thoroughly, considering factors such as the mechanism of injury, neurovascular status, and potential complications. Therefore, WFRs are not typically trained to reduce shoulder dislocations in the same manner as those of the jaw and patella, primarily due to the potential for associated injuries and the intricate musculoskeletal structure involved.

This careful approach reflects the priority placed on patient safety and the effective use of training in a wilderness environment. Thus, the correct answer acknowledges the specific types of dislocations that WFRs are trained to reduce, aligning with the principles