The decision-making process in an emergency: a reflection on paramedic practice

Paramedics often have to make critical decisions based on several options and frequently make these alone (Bledsoe et al, 2007). They attend patients who do not present with classic textbook signs and symptoms. In order to make a clinical judgement, the paramedic is required to use their knowledge and experience to achieve a patient care focused critical decision (Bledsoe et al, 2007). Therefore, gaining a better understanding of a decision-making process will make a significant contribution to optimal patient care (Buckingham and Adams, 2000).

This article will use a case study to critically reflect and analyse the decision-making process used in an emergency situation. It will discuss a range of factors that influenced the clinical decision-making process and how this prompted immediate transport to a local hospital. A wide range of supporting evidence will be explored and the decision-making process will be questioned and challenged. Relevant professional, ethical and legal issues will be considered and discussed. The inclusion of other colleagues, patients, relatives and their involvement, within the decision-making process, will also be deliberated.