Spotlight on Research

Many paramedics will have raised their eyebrows upon entering the scene of a cardiac arrest to find bystanders performing chest compressions while the patient is lying supine on a springy mattress.

Effect of shift length on paramedic anxiety

Introduction: Paramedics frequently experience extremely stressful situations. A combination of the unknown, long shifts and witnessing human distress and tragedy can have lasting effects on the psyche of these individuals. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a difference between anxiety levels experienced by paramedics who work 12-hour shifts and those working 24-hour shifts. It was hypothesised that those required to work longer shifts would experience higher levels of...

Demystifying prehospital research in practice

How paramedics apply the spinal immobilisation algorithm in trauma patients

Background: Validated criteria are included in the algorithm used in the UK prehospital setting to safely reduce the number of traumatically injured patients requiring full spinal immobilisation. The criteria improve the sensitivity in selecting patients with spinal injuries but evidence how UK ambulance clinicians apply them is sparse. Aims: This study aimed to identify the knowledge levels and the use of the spinal immobilisation algorithm by ambulance clinicians. Methods: A quantitative...

Paramedic practice in low light conditions: a scoping review

Background: Paramedics undertake visually demanding tasks, which may be adversely affected by low lighting conditions. Aims: The study aimed to: identify difficulties paramedics experience carrying out tasks in low light; and establish occupational health standards and adjustments that may improve working practices. Methods: A scoping review was undertaken informed by a professional panel of paramedics recruited through social media. A meta-analysis was conducted assessing visual acuity...

Prevalence of stress disorders in frontline healthcare students

Emerging evidence indicates that some healthcare students are developing stress disorders, due to factors relating to their chosen field of study. If accurate, this could have a major impact not only on those students, but also on the professions into which they are entering. To understand the extent of the problem, a literature review was conducted to identify the overall prevalence of stress disorders in healthcare students who are exposed to occupational stress/trauma, and/or course-related...

A mass distribution letter as an early intervention for potential frequent callers

Background: Intensive engagement with frequent callers (FCs) has been shown to be effective at reducing call volumes and producing positive outcomes for service users. Aims: This study aimed to examine the impact of sending a mass distribution letter to potential frequent callers (PFCs) on emergency call volumes. Methods: A standardised letter containing advice and information for newly identified PFCs was introduced in an attempt to signpost service users to more appropriate care providers...

Paramedics’ perspectives of the community paramedic role in Ontario, Canada

Background: Community paramedicine (CP) expands the paramedic role to emergency call prevention, yet little research has examined paramedics’ perspectives of CP. Aims: This study sought to explore paramedics’ views regarding the CP role and training. Methods: A cross-sectional, web-based survey of Ontario paramedics measured perceptions, support and interest in CP. Descriptive and regression analyses were conducted. Findings: Of the 452 participants, 57.5% were male, 43.6% primary care...

Experiences of personal protective equipment and reasons for non-compliance

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic created challenges in prehospital care. Paramedics have been required to adhere to strict protocols regarding infection control and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). These protocols have evolved as the pandemic progressed. Understanding the experiences of paramedics in using PPE and their reasons behind not adhering to recommended guidelines should improve the limited evidence base and assist healthcare organisations to form tailored PPE guidance,...