What does the term "wilderness" refer to in the context of Wilderness Protocols?

In the context of Wilderness Protocols, the term "wilderness" specifically refers to remote, high-risk, low-resource environments. These areas are typically characterized by their isolation from immediate medical facilities and support, which often presents unique challenges for those providing care.

When dealing with emergencies in such settings, responders must rely on their training, creativity, and available resources, often improvising with what they have on hand. Wilderness environments can include backcountry areas, mountains, forests, or other locations where access to advanced medical care is limited and evacuation might take significant time and effort. Understanding this definition is crucial for Wilderness First Responders, as it shapes their approach to assessment, treatment decisions, and emergency response protocols tailored to such challenging environments.