Proficiency in Medical Care

Approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, this course is designed for seafarers who are designated to provide medical first aid on board ship in accordance with STCW 95 A-V1/4 (1-3). In commercial terms this qualification is aimed at those responsible for providing medical care on vessels voyaging worldwide however it also provides a wealth of knowledge to those that might be considering blue water cruising.

This course moves on from the Medical First Aid course in that it concentrates on teaching medical diagnosis using a combination of symptom observation and the Ship's Captains Medical Guide enabling you to be the eyes and ears of the doctor at the end of the radio. It also concentrates on teaching longer term medical care of casualties using, if necessary, the contents of the Cat A medical kit. Minor surgical procedures such as suturing, catheterisation, urine testing and the administering of injections are also taught.

Course Structure

Communication with outside authorities such as radio medical advice and port authorities.Knowledge of medical terminology.

Making a diagnosis.

The cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

The abdominal system.

ENT, dental and opthalmology.

Communicable diseases.

Wounds and injuries.

Medication Equipment and information.

Patient management (general).

Patient management (specific).

Medical care of children