Marine First Aid Level 3 (VTQ)
Course Overview
The Marine First Aid Level 3 (VTQ) course provides advanced first aid training specifically designed for marine and boating environments. It equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to manage serious medical emergencies at sea, where access to professional medical assistance may be delayed.
This course builds upon the knowledge gained in Marine First Aid Levels 1 and 2, developing a higher level of competence in managing complex injuries, medical conditions, and environmental emergencies that may occur on boats or offshore.
It is ideal for boat owners, skippers, marine professionals, and anyone responsible for safety on the water.
Who Should Attend
This course is suitable for:
- Boat owners and recreational sailors
- Commercial vessel crew members
- Skippers and captains
- Marine instructors and water sports professionals
- Offshore workers
- Anyone responsible for first aid on vessels
Course Duration
- Approximate duration: 6 hours
- Delivery options:
- Online learning
- Blended learning (online + practical session)
- Classroom training
Course Content
1. Introduction to Marine First Aid
- Principles of advanced first aid in marine environments
- Risk factors when providing first aid at sea
- Importance of preparation and emergency planning
2. Advanced CPR and AED Use
- Advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques
- Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) onboard
- Managing resuscitation in confined or unstable environments
3. Severe Bleeding Control
- Identifying life-threatening bleeding
- Advanced haemorrhage control techniques
- Use of pressure dressings and tourniquets
4. Shock Management
- Recognising the different types of shock
- Managing hypovolemic shock caused by blood loss
- Maintaining casualty stability until help arrives
5. Fractures and Bone Injuries
- Recognising fractures and dislocations
- Splinting techniques suitable for marine environments
- Managing complex bone injuries at sea
6. Spinal Injury Management
- Recognising potential spinal injuries
- Immobilisation techniques onboard vessels
- Safe casualty handling and movement
7. Head and Chest Injuries
- Recognising head trauma and concussion
- Managing rib fractures and chest injuries
- First aid for penetrating chest wounds
8. Medical Emergencies at Sea
Managing serious medical conditions including:
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
- Diabetic emergencies
- Seizures
9. Burns and Scalds
- Treating severe burns
- Chemical burns
- Electrical burns
10. Hypothermia and Cold Exposure
- Recognising early and severe hypothermia
- Treatment of frostbite
- Managing cold exposure in marine environments
11. Drowning and Near-Drowning Incidents
- Recognising drowning casualties
- Rescue breathing and resuscitation techniques
- Post-rescue care and monitoring
12. Final Assessment
- Knowledge review
- Online or instructor-led assessment
- Certification upon successful completion
Certification
Upon successful completion, learners will receive:
- Marine First Aid Level 3 (VTQ) Certificate
- Evidence-based training certificate
- Printable wall certificate
- Digital certification available instantly
Course Features
- Approximately 6 hours of training
- Downloadable student manual
- Certificate on completion
Why Take Marine First Aid Training?
Marine environments present unique challenges, including:
- Delayed access to emergency services
- Remote locations
- Harsh weather conditions
- Limited medical equipment
Having advanced first aid knowledge ensures you can stabilise casualties and potentially save lives until professional help arrives.