Course Description
The Proficiency in Medical First Aid course is designed for seafarers who are designated to provide medical first aid on board ship in accordance with STCW A-V1/4 (1-3).
The course provides knowledge of giving first aid safely at sea and contains both theoretical and practical elements to build capability and confidence.
It covers subjects including medical emergencies, resuscitation, poisons, temperature extremes, wounds and bleeding, head injuries, fractures, dislocations, and spinal injuries, among other subjects.
In commercial terms, this qualification is aimed at those responsible for providing first aid on vessels venturing up to 150 miles from a safe haven. It is also useful for those that might be considering blue water cruising.
Learning objectives
The Proficiency in Medical First Aid course is delivered using a combination of classroom sessions and practical sessions.
The course includes:
- Medical emergencies
- Communication, equipment and information
- Resuscitation
- Scene management and care of the casualty
- Casualty handling and the unconscious casualty, transportation techniques
- Shock – bleeding, wounds and injuries
- Burns
- Head injuries, fractures and dislocation
- Soft tissue injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Poisoning, effects, treatments and pharmacology
- Temperature extremes
- Serious illnesses
- Heart attacks
Pre-Course Requirements
Candidates must be over 18 and have already completed the STCW95 Elementary First Aid Course.
Assessment and Certification
Assessment is by practical and written exam on the final day of the course. Successful candidates will receive the Proficiency in Medical First Aid STCW A-VI/4 (paragraphs 1-3) certificate.
E-Learning and Exit Examination
Please note that all exit exams are now conducted online the DGS website and can only be attempted once the candidates have complete the requisite e-learning hours on the DGS website.
Candidates are allowed a total of three attempts only. If you do not pass on the third attempt, that particular course has to be repeated after paying the full course fees again.
Note: As per DGS instructions it is mandatory to attempt the exit exams from the institute.