The program covers the requirements of the STCW Convention 1978 as amended Chapter VI, Section A-VI/4, and Table A-VI/4-1.

Upon completion of the course, trainee will be able competent to apply immediate first aid in the event of accident or illness on board.

On successful completion of the course, trainee will be able competent to apply immediate first aid in the event of accident or illness on board:

• Assess and apply immediate first aid on board a vessel using first aid kits and other medical supplies and equipment
• Evaluate body structure and function including:
• Skeletal system; muscular system; cardiovascular system; respiratory system
• Digestive system and abdomen
• Assess toxicological hazards on board including use of:
• The medical first aid guide for use in accidents involving dangerous goods (MFAG) or its equivalent
• Oxygen resuscitators
• Evaluate and appraise probable cause, nature and extent of injuries including appraisal the scene and ensuring risk of harm to self and others is minimized
• Assess and treat spinal injuries in accordance with recognized first aid practice and international guidelines
• Assess and treat burns and scalds, and the effects of heat and cold in accordance with recognized first aid practice and international guidelines
• Assess and treat fractures, dislocation and muscular injuries in accordance with recognized first aid practice and international guidelines
• Manage the medical care of rescued persons including distress, hypothermia and cold exposure
• Interpret advice received from radio medical source, & administer prescribed drugs
• Pharmacology – appraise the drug list on board a vessel including usage, dosages and injections
• Demonstrate disinfection of surgical instruments
• Assess and treat cardiac arrest, drowning and asphyxia in accordance with recognized first aid practice and international guidelines

Entry standards

For entry to the course the candidate should present:

• Certificate of Competency or Certificate of Proficiency or educational diploma
• Passport or Seaman’s Book or Seafarer’s Identity Document;
• Seafarer’s Medical Certificate

Course duration: 5 days