A look at discussions on JPP's social media

Paramedic Practice @Para_Practice

A shortage of #paramedics will leave #patients at risk - what would you say to anyone considering a career in paramedicine? How would you like to see the staffing situation resolved?

@josephfra

I don't think there is a shortage in Paramedics. There's a shortage in Paramedics willing to work for an ambulance trust. How can the trusts respond is what we should be asking.

@SaviourMedical

Devise route in that doesn't exclude mature students with a life that cannot take on the debt of university, and retain staff by better shift patterns, actually having a work/life balance and a showing to staff a huge dose of respect for the job that is done.

@Lill_Legs

I agree with degree level but not the entrance criteria. Could it be weighted towards factors outside academia? An A grade student doesn't necessarily make an A grade paramedic.

Paramedic Practice @Para_Practice

Some very moving stories - how do you feel about showing emotion in front of your patients? Is it unprofessional or a sign of humanity?

@BetterParaConf

Sign of humanity. Which isn't to say it happens often, and one should be mindful of not crying more than those you are looking after, but the etymological root of ‘care’ is via lament and sorrow, so intertwined with empathy.

@stoners01

Being able to work with negative emotion and empathy are the key to compassionate and effective communication. @swasFTCCT have been delivering education for staff in this area - there are many barriers/reasons & fears why clinicians and patients block emotion

Gerry Egan @Gerry_Egan

Really proud of my team and yes its a journey but this is a big step, thank you CHM for a very fair hearing #ParaPrescribing

Tim Nowak

Is there REALLY a Paramedic shortage…or are many of the Paramedics working in the wrong places? (FDs requiring Paramedic… slow dual-Paramedic systems…non-transport ALS agencies…clinics)

Jeff Fishel

Our region, by estimate is 15 short

Journal of Paramedic Practice

Published by Rebecca Gilroy Mentally unwell patients, or those experiencing behavioural emergencies, are being increasingly tended to by paramedics. How do you feel your service is coping with these cases? Do you think more training and education is needed?

Jon Rice

Not enough Training. Not enough or any out of hours referral services, the only option most of us have is take them to a busy ED department and wait for hours. Which we all know isn't good for patients with mental health issues, especially paranoid schizophrenia.

Jules Crowley

It's one of the hardest part of the job. You spend time with a patient talk to them, understand why they are in crisis and then have to apologise as the only option is ED

Journal of Paramedic Practice

Published by Rebecca Gilroy Would you encourage colleagues to open up about #mentalhealth at work? This is such an important and relevant issue for #paramedics and #EMS staff, we want to hear your thoughts and experiences.

Bob Burness

Part of it is the nature of the job but the current pressures do not help, I can remember when we used to return to station between jobs and able to talk to other crews for mutual support, that no longer happens…