Journal articles on the topic 'Paramedical education Australia'
To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Paramedical education Australia.
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 journal articles for your research on the topic 'Paramedical education Australia.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse journal articles on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Kirsty, Shearer, Matthew Thomas, and Tania Signal. "Perceptions of ethical dilemmas in Australian paramedicine." International Paramedic Practice 11, no. 3 (September 2, 2021): 67–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/ippr.2021.11.3.67.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Paramedics experience a range of ethical dilemmas in the course of their work. To date, ethical dilemmas by Australian paramedics have not been documented. With the scope of practice becoming increasingly complex, paramedic education may not have evolved to meet holistic professional demands. Aim: To describe the ethical dilemmas experienced by contemporary Australian paramedics. Methods: An online survey, based on a previous instrument, was used to explore a range of ethical dilemmas. Findings: Paramedics face a range of ethical dilemmas in their everyday practice. While several demographic variables were associated with different perceptions, the results of this study highlight that a paramedic's years of experience is most consistently associated with their perception of ethical dilemmas. Conclusion: Australian paramedics experience a range of ethical dilemmas consistent with previous international findings. Years of experience in the profession features heavily and is relied upon more so than education, suggesting that educational approaches to ethics education in paramedicine need to be reconsidered.
2
Shearer, Kirsty, Matthew Thomas, and Tania Signal. "Perceptions of ethical dilemmas in Australian paramedicine." Journal of Paramedic Practice 13, no. 8 (August 2, 2021): 332–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2021.13.8.332.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Paramedics experience a range of ethical dilemmas in the course of their work. To date, ethical dilemmas by Australian paramedics have not been documented. With the scope of practice becoming increasingly complex, paramedic education may not have evolved to meet holistic professional demands. Aim: To describe the ethical dilemmas experienced by contemporary Australian paramedics. Methods: An online survey, based on a previous instrument, was used to explore a range of ethical dilemmas. Findings: Paramedics face a range of ethical dilemmas in their everyday practice. While several demographic variables were associated with different perceptions, the results of this study highlight that a paramedic's years of experience is most consistently associated with their perception of ethical dilemmas. Conclusion: Australian paramedics experience a range of ethical dilemmas consistent with previous international findings. Years of experience in the profession features heavily and is relied upon more so than education, suggesting that educational approaches to ethics education in paramedicine need to be reconsidered.
3
Horrocks, Peter, Vivienne Tippett, and Peter Aitken. "An Evaluation of the Self-Reported Knowledge Base of Disaster Management Core Competencies of Australian Paramedics." Prehospital and Disaster Medicine 34, s1 (May 2019): s129—s130. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x19002814.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction:Evidence-based training and curriculum are seen as vital in order to be successful in preparing paramedics for an effective disaster response. The creation of broadly recognized standard core competencies to support the development of disaster response education and training courses for general health care providers and specific health care professionals will help to ensure that medical personnel are truly prepared to care for victims of mass casualty events.Aim:To identify current Australian operational paramedic’s specific disaster management education and knowledge as it relates to disaster management core competencies identified throughout the literature and the frequency of measures/techniques which these paramedics use to maintain competency and currency.Methods:Paramedics from all states of Australia were invited to complete an anonymous online survey. Two professional bodies distributed the survey via social media and a major ambulance service was surveyed via email.Results:The study population includes 130 respondents who self-identified as a currently practicing Australian paramedic. Paramedics from all states except South Australia responded, with the majority coming from Queensland Ambulance Service (N= 81%). In terms of experience, 81.54% of respondents report being qualified for greater than 5 years. Initial analysis shows that despite the extensive experience of the practitioners surveyed when asked to rate from high to low their level of knowledge of specific disaster management core competencies a number of gaps exist.Discussion:Core competencies are a defined level of expertise that is essential or fundamental to a particular job, and serve to form the foundation of education, training, and practice for operational service delivery. While more research is needed, these results may help inform industry, government, and education providers to better understand and to more efficiently provide education and ongoing training to paramedics who are responsible for the management of disaster within the Australian community.
4
McManamny, Tegwyn, Paul A. Jennings, Leanne Boyd, Jade Sheen, and Judy A. Lowthian. "Paramedic involvement in health education within metropolitan, rural and remote Australia: a narrative review of the literature." Australian Health Review 44, no. 1 (2020): 114. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah17228.
Full textAbstract:
Objective A growing body of research indicates that paramedics may have a greater role to play in health care service provision, beyond the traditional models of emergency health care. The aim of this study was to identify and synthesise the literature pertaining to the role of paramedic-initiated health education within Australia, with specific consideration of metropolitan, rural and remote contexts. Methods A literature review was undertaken using the Ovid Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), EMBASE and Scopus databases. The search time frame was limited from January 2007 to November 2017. The search was performed using key paramedic search terms in combination with keywords such as health education, rural, metropolitan, remote and Australia. Reference lists from relevant papers were also reviewed. Results Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria for synthesis. Health education in the Australian paramedic context relates largely to expanded-scope paramedics, health promotion and the role of paramedics as key members of local communities. There were no studies specifically related to the paramedic role in health education, although many papers referred to health education as one of many roles paramedics engage in today. Conclusion This review highlights a broadening of paramedicine’s traditional scope of practice, and an indication of how vital paramedics could be to local communities, particularly in rural and remote areas. An expanded role may help address health workforce sustainability problems in areas where health care provision is challenged by geographical constraints and low workforce numbers. What is known about the topic? A broadening of paramedicine’s traditional scope of practice has been linked to improvements in health workforce sustainability problems in areas where health care provision is challenged by geographical constraints and low workforce numbers, such as rural and remote Australia. Health education, as well as health promotion, primary health care and chronic disease management, have been proposed as potential activities that paramedics could be well placed to participate in, contributing to the health and well-being of local communities. What does this paper add? This paper identifies and synthesises literature focusing on paramedic-initiated health education in the Australian context, assessing the current health education role of paramedics in metropolitan, rural and remote areas. It provides an understanding of different geographical areas that may benefit from expanded-scope prehospital practice, indicating that the involvement of paramedics in health education in Australia is significantly determined by their geographical place of work, reflecting the influence of the availability of healthcare resources on individual communities. What are the implications for practitioners? Today’s paramedics fill broader roles than those encompassed within traditional models of prehospital care. Rural and remote communities facing increasing difficulty in obtaining health service provision appear to benefit strongly from the presence of expanded-scope paramedics trained in health promotion, primary injury prevention, chronic disease management and health education: this should be a consideration for medical and allied health practitioners in these areas. Australian paramedics are uniquely placed to ‘fill the gaps’ left by shortages of healthcare professionals in rural and remote areas of the country.
5
King, Shannon C., Amanda L. Rebar, Paul Oliveri, and Robert Stanton. "Australian paramedic students’ mental health literacy and attitudes towards mental health." Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice 17, no. 1 (October 11, 2021): 61–72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jmhtep-03-2021-0027.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose Australian paramedics regularly encounter patients experiencing mental illness. However, some paramedics hold negative attitudes towards the use of emergency services in providing care for these patients. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine the mental health literacy (MHL) of Australian paramedic students, and the training and experiential factors associated with MHL. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional online survey was delivered to paramedic students across Australia. A total of 94 paramedic students completed the survey examining MHL, mental health first aid (MHFA) intentions, confidence in providing help, personal and perceived stigma and willingness to interact with a person experiencing mental illness. Findings Participants generally had poor MHFA intentions in spite of good recognition of mental health disorders and good knowledge about mental health. Participants also demonstrated low stigmatising attitudes towards mental illness; however, they expressed a lack of willingness to interact with a person experiencing mental illness. Originality/value Our findings propose a combination of work-based experience and specific MHFA training may be beneficial to paramedic students to improve care for patients experiencing mental illness.
6
Weber, Anthony, Celeste Lawson, and Brett Williams. "Frameworks that guide curriculum development in Australian higher education." Journal of Paramedic Practice 13, no. 3 (March 2, 2021): 105–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2021.13.3.105.
Full textAbstract:
Background: In Australia, accrediting body competencies reflect paramedic professional practice rather than informing curriculum development for higher education institutions. Purpose: This article will investigate frameworks that can be used to design curriculum development. Method: An initial focused discourse analysis of the grey literature was undertaken followed by a systematic review. Findings: Three of the 18 institutions in Australia and New Zealand that offer paramedic education identified some form of framework. Two theories were identified as applicable in supporting the development of curricula that are focused on the expanded scope of practice of paramedicine. Discussion: The current and future scope in paramedicine will define the development of curricula, especially in relation to a more primary-focused healthcare model. Conclusion: Further research is required to establish a consensus on what constitutes the essential core knowledge and skills required by graduate paramedics so that they are able to deliver patient care proficiently.
7
King, Shannon C., Amanda L. Rebar, Paul Oliveri, and Robert Stanton. "Mental health training for Australian undergraduate paramedic science students: a review." Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice 16, no. 5 (August 4, 2021): 373–82. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jmhtep-06-2020-0034.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose This paper aims to present the current state of evidence regarding the mental health literacy of paramedics and student paramedics and whether mental health literacy affects the care that paramedics provide to their patients with mental illness. Design/methodology/approach Embase, PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar were searched for recent (2010–2020) English language published articles using the key phrases paramedic AND/OR ambulance AND mental health AND mental health literacy. Additional searches of the reference lists of included articles were undertaken. A descriptive thematic analysis was used to arrive at a narrative synthesis of the study findings. Findings The emergency medical services system has taken a primary role in the care of patients with mental illness but has limited capacity for non-emergency psychosocial situations. Negative and judgemental attitudes amongst paramedics towards patients with mental illness is a significant issue and remains a barrier to patients seeking medical care for mental illness. Improved care provision and patient engagement might result from specific education aimed to better enhance paramedics’ mental health literacy. Originality/value This literature review provides insights into the current practice of mental health training for Australian undergraduate paramedic science students and the implications for patient care. Recommendations for educational strategies are provided.
8
Emond, Kate, Melanie Bish, Michael Savic, Dan I. Lubman, Terence McCann, Karen Smith, and George Mnatzaganian. "Characteristics of Confidence and Preparedness in Paramedics in Metropolitan, Regional, and Rural Australia to Manage Mental-Health-Related Presentations: A Cross-Sectional Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 4 (February 15, 2021): 1882. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041882.
Full textAbstract:
Mental-health-related presentations account for a considerable proportion of the paramedic’s workload in prehospital care. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the perceived confidence and preparedness of paramedics in Australian metropolitan and rural areas to manage mental-health-related presentations. Overall, 1140 paramedics were surveyed. Pearson chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to compare categorical variables by sex and location of practice; continuous variables were compared using the non-parametric Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests. Perceived confidence and preparedness were each modelled in multivariable ordinal regressions. Female paramedics were younger with higher qualifications but were less experienced than their male counterparts. Compared to paramedics working in metropolitan regions, those working in rural and regional areas were generally older with fewer qualifications and were significantly less confident and less prepared to manage mental health presentations (p = 0.001). Compared to male paramedics, females were less confident (p = 0.003), although equally prepared (p = 0.1) to manage mental health presentations. These results suggest that higher qualifications from the tertiary sector may not be adequately preparing paramedics to manage mental health presentations, which signifies a disparity between education provided and workforce preparedness. Further work is required to address the education and training requirements of paramedics in regional and rural areas to increase confidence and preparedness in managing mental health presentations.
9
Williams, Brett, Mal Boyle, and Tracy Earl. "Measurement of Empathy Levels in Undergraduate Paramedic Students." Prehospital and Disaster Medicine 28, no. 2 (January 29, 2013): 145–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x1300006x.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractIntroductionParamedics rely on establishing a health provider-patient relationship with patients that promotes two-way communication, patient satisfaction, and facilitates appropriate patient assessment and treatment. Paramedics also must have an ability to empathize with patients and their family members in order to develop a successful health provider-patient relationship. The objective of this study was to assess paramedics’ empathy and attitudes toward patients with specific conditions.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of first-, second-, and third-year, Australian undergraduate paramedic students. Student empathy levels were assessed using two standardized self-reporting instruments: the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy (JSPE) Health Professional (HP) version and the Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS).ResultsA total of 94 paramedic students participated in the study. The JSPE demonstrated that male paramedic students had higher mean empathy scores than did female paramedic students (113.25 and 107.5, respectively; P = .042). The JSPE empathy level scores were lowest among first-year paramedic students (mean = 107.53); age was not found to be a significant variable on empathy scores. The Medical Condition Regard Scale revealed lowest scores in compassion towards substance abuse (mean = 46.42).ConclusionsThe results of this study provide the discipline of paramedic health care with useful data, and provide students, academics, and other educators with important information regarding the improvement of the health provider-patient relationship and paramedic education curriculum development.WilliamsB, BoyleM, EarlT. Measurement of empathy levels in undergraduate paramedic students. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2013;28(2):1-5.
10
Joyce, Catherine M., Jo Wainer, Frank Archer, Andrea Wyatt, and Leon Pitermann. "Trends in the paramedic workforce: a profession in transition." Australian Health Review 33, no. 4 (2009): 533. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah090533.
Full textAbstract:
Ambulance services play a key role in the Australian health system, as the primary providers of pre-hospital clinical care, emergency care and specialised transport.1 Although at present there is a strong focus on broad health system reform, and health workforce reform specifically, little attention has been paid to the place of pre-hospital clinical care and the paramedic workforce that provides these services. Despite their significant role in the health system, there is no strategic national approach by government to the development of ambulance services or the paramedic workforce. In this paper, we review current and emerging trends impacting on the paramedic workforce. We examine changes in patterns of ambulance service provision and the nature of clinical work undertaken by paramedics, as well as developments in education, training and career pathways. We focus on the current situation in Victoria to illustrate and identify a number of important implications of current changes, for the profession, service and training providers, and policy makers.
11
Koritsas, Stella, Malcolm Boyle, and Jan Coles. "Factors Associated with Workplace Violence in Paramedics." Prehospital and Disaster Medicine 24, no. 5 (October 2009): 417–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x0000724x.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractIntroduction:The majority of research that has explored workplace violence has focused on establishing the prevalence of violence in different settings. In general, there is a paucity of research that explores factors that may predict or increase the risk of experiencing violence in the workplace.Objective:The aim of this research was to determine predictors of violence for paramedics.Methods:A questionnaire was developed that focused on paramedics' experi-ences with six forms of violence: verbal abuse, property damage/theft, intimi-dation, physical abuse, sexual harassment, and sexual assault.The questionnaire was distributed randomly to paramedics throughout rural Victoria and metropolitan South Australia, and completed and returned anonymously.Results:Predictors emerged for verbal abuse, intimidation, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse. Specifically, gender was the only predictor of intimidation, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Paramedic qualifications, how they responded to a call-out, and hours per week in direct patient contact emerged as a predictor of verbal abuse.Conclusions:Certain factors predict or predispose paramedics to workplace violence. The need for workplace violence education and training is impera-tive for the prevention of violence, as well as for its management.
12
Anderson, Cameron, Julie Ann Pooley, Brennen Mills, Emma Anderson, and Erin C. Smith. "Do Paramedics Have a Professional Obligation to Work During a Pandemic? A Qualitative Exploration of Community Member Expectations." Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness 14, no. 3 (June 2020): 406–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/dmp.2020.212.
Full textAbstract:
ABSTRACTObjectives:Previous research has identified a lack of clarification regarding paramedic professional obligation to work. Understanding community expectations of paramedics will provide some clarity around this issue. The objective of this research was to explore the expectations of a sample of Australian community members regarding the professional obligation of paramedics to respond during pandemics.Methods:The authors used qualitative methods to gather Australian community member perspectives immediately before the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Focus groups were used for data collection, and a thematic analysis was conducted.Results:The findings revealed 9 key themes: context of obligation (normal operations versus crisis situation), hierarchy of obligation (individual versus organizational obligation), risk acceptability, acceptable occupational risk (it’s part of the job), access to personal protective equipment, legal and ethical guidelines, education and training, safety, and acceptable limitations to obligation. The factors identified as being acceptable limitations to professional obligation are presented as further sub-themes: physical health, mental health, and competing personal obligations.Conclusions:The issue of professional obligation must be addressed by ambulance services as a matter of urgency, especially in light of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Further research is recommended to understand how community member expectations evolve during and after the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
13
Parker, Leigh, Sarah J. Prior, Pieter J. Van Dam, and Dale G. Edwards. "Altruism in Paramedicine: A Scoping Review." Healthcare 10, no. 9 (September 9, 2022): 1731. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10091731.
Full textAbstract:
While altruism has been studied in healthcare professions such as nursing and medicine, the exploration of the characteristics of altruism, as related to paramedicine and emergency care in Australia, is limited. This scoping review explores altruism in paramedicine from the perspective of the paramedic as practitioner, learner, and educator as seen through the lens of the paramedic and the patient. Also discussed is the positive impact of altruism on the patient experience of care. A scoping review was used to assess the availability of data related to altruism in paramedicine. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews was used to guide the process. Search categories were orientated around the subject (altruism) and discipline (paramedicine). A total of 27 articles are included in this scoping review. Initial searching identified 742 articles; after duplicate removal, 396 articles were screened with 346 excluded. Fifty articles were full-text reviewed and 23 excluded. The final 27 were extracted following full-text screening. None of the articles are specific to altruism in paramedicine. The data related to the practice of altruism in paramedicine are extremely limited. The preponderance of data arise from Europe and North America which, due to crewing and service differences, may impact the practice of altruism in different regions. Recent changes to the scope of paramedic practice, workload, education, and case acuity may influence behaviour regarding altruism, compassion, caring, and associated caring behaviours. The practice and education of paramedics including altruism, compassion, caring and caring behaviours in the Australasian setting warrants further research.
14
Horrocks, Peter, Lisa Hobbs, Vivienne Tippett, and Peter Aitken. "Paramedic Disaster Health Management Competencies: A Scoping Review." Prehospital and Disaster Medicine 34, no. 03 (May 28, 2019): 322–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x19004357.
Full textAbstract:
AbstractIntroduction:Paramedics are tasked with providing 24/7 prehospital emergency care to the community. As part of this role, they are also responsible for providing emergency care in the event of a major incident or disaster. They play a major role in the response stage of such events, both domestic and international. Despite this, specific standardized training in disaster management appears to be variable and inconsistent throughout the profession. A suggested method of building disaster response capacities is through competency-based education (CBE). Core competencies can provide the fundamental basis of collective learning and help ensure consistent application and translation of knowledge into practice. These competencies are often organized into domains, or categories of learning outcomes, as defined by Blooms taxonomy of learning domains. It is these domains of competency, as they relate to paramedic disaster response, that are the subject of this review.Methods:The methodology for this paper to identify existing paramedic disaster response competency domains was adapted from the guidance for the development of systematic scoping reviews, using a methodology developed by members of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI; Adelaide, South Australia) and members of five Joanna Briggs Collaborating Centres.Results:The literature search identified six articles for review that reported on paramedic disaster response competency domains. The results were divided into two groups: (1) General Core Competency Domains, which are suitable for all paramedics (both Advanced Life Support [ALS] and Basic Life Support [BLS]) who respond to any disaster or major incident; and (2) Specialist Core Competencies, which are deemed necessary competencies to enable a response to certain types of disaster. Further review then showed that three separate and discrete types of competency domains exits in the literature: (1) Core Competencies, (2) Technical/Clinical Competencies, and (3) Specialist Technical/Clinical Competencies.Conclusions:The most common domains of core competencies for paramedic first responders to manage major incidents and disasters described in the literature were identified. If it’s accepted that training paramedics in disaster response is an essential part of preparedness within the disaster management cycle, then by including these competency domains into the curriculum development of localized disaster training programs, it will better prepare the paramedic workforce’s competence and ability to effectively respond to disasters and major incidents.
15
Hou, Xiang-Yu, Joanna Rego, and Melinda Service. "Review article: Paramedic education opportunities and challenges in Australia." Emergency Medicine Australasia 25, no. 2 (December 25, 2012): 114–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1742-6723.12034.
Full text
16
Williams, Brett, and Bronwyn Beovich. "Experiences of Sessional Educators within an Australian Undergraduate Paramedic Program." Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice 14, no. 1 (January 1, 2017): 73–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.53761/1.14.1.6.
Full textAbstract:
Background: The use of casual staff within the university undergraduate educational setting is a widespread phenomenon worldwide. However a lack of understanding exists regarding experiences of recruitment, support, professional development and other perceived professional needs in this area. Although previous studies of the experience of sessional educators have been reported in the literature, this is the first to describe experiences within the paramedic discipline. Objectives: To explore the experiences of sessional educators in an undergraduate program within the paramedic department of a university in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: A qualitative methodology was used that involved 10 semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of sessional paramedic educators. Data collected from the interviews were thematically analysed to identify major issues from interview transcripts. The study was conducted in the paramedic department of a major university located in an outer metropolitan area of Melbourne, Australia. Results: Interview analysis identified five key themes of the sessional paramedic educator experience: informal processes, program inconsistencies, preparation for teaching, connection and support, and, educator benefits. Conclusion: This study fills a gap in the literature by describing the experiences of paramedic sessional educators, which was previously unreported. Many of the experiences expressed were commonly reported in the literature from other disciplines. Although the experiences was generally described as positive, the study identified a need for targeted support of these individuals, including formalisation of employment procedures, encouraging the open and timely transmission of information, as well as provisions for performance feedback and professional development.
17
Williams, Brett, Malcolm Boyle, and Peter O'Meara. "Can Undergraduate Paramedic and Nursing Students Accurately Estimate Patient Age and Weight?" Prehospital and Disaster Medicine 25, no. 2 (April 2010): 171–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x00007937.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction:Accurate estimation of a patient's age and weight are skills expected of all healthcare clinicians, including paramedics and nurses. It is necessary because patients may be unable to communicate such information due to unconsciousness or an altered state of conscious. Age and weight estimation influence calculation for medication dosages, defibrillation, equipment sizing, and other invasive procedures such as intubation. The objective of this study was to identify whether undergraduate paramedic and nursing students were able to accurately estimate a patient's age and weight based on digital patient photos.Methods:A prospective, observational study involving undergraduate paramedic and nursing students from two Australian universities was used to estimate the age and weight of seven patients (adult and pediatric). Each patient image appeared in a PowerPointTMpresentation for 15 seconds, followed by a short pause, with the next patient image commencing automatically.Results:The findings demonstrated variable accuracy in age and weight estimation of the patients. Age estimations of pediatric patients were more accurate than estimations for adult patients. The majority of patient weights were under-estimated, with university undergraduate students in one university displaying similar estimations to the other university counterparts.Conclusions:Results from this study identified variations in students' ability to accurately estimate a patient's age and weight. This study shows that consideration should be given to age and weight estimation education, which could be incorporated into undergraduate healthcare curriculum.
18
Wanstall, S., A. Naweed, B. Brown, T. Rayner, R. Adams, and A. Reynolds. "P130 The lived experience of shift work, sleep loss and fatigue in Australian paramedics." SLEEP Advances 3, Supplement_1 (October 1, 2022): A71—A72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/sleepadvances/zpac029.198.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Introduction Paramedics are essential health workers, and are regularly exposed to shift work, which negatively impacts sleep and fatigue. Paramedics also experience adverse mental health outcomes and sleep disorders at higher rates than the general population. Consequently, retention and occupational burnout issues are common. However, the relationship between shift work, sleep disorders, fatigue, and mental wellbeing in paramedics is poorly understood, limiting our ability to design and implement effective interventions. Method This study uses a qualitative action research design involving one-to-one interviews, with an intended sample of 30 paramedics (completion Aug 2022). The Scenario Invention Task Technique is used, requiring workers to explore how they engage and interact with their work. Participants generate challenging scenarios specific to their work when feeling rested, and then consider the same scenario when feeling extremely fatigued. Data are analysed using an inductive thematic structure. Results Analysis of preliminary data (n=10) indicates sleep loss and fatigue negatively impact workers’ ability to manage challenging scenarios and the self-regulation of emotions. While participants know sleep problems impact their wellbeing, limited knowledge on identification and management of sleep disorders is apparent. Early findings suggest an optimal window for better sleep education would be during internship, and paramedics suggest the information needs to be provided by an expert, and trusted, voice. Discussion Study findings will help inform sleep education, screening and support toolkits about sleep, fatigue and shift work tailored to paramedics in order to support wellbeing and sustainable careers.
19
Munro, Graham G., Peter O'Meara, and Bernice Mathisen. "Paramedic academics in Australia and New Zealand: The ‘no man's land’ of professional identity." Nurse Education in Practice 33 (November 2018): 33–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nepr.2018.08.006.
Full text
20
McAllister, Margaret, Dixie Statham, Florin Oprescu, Nigel Barr, Teressa Schmidt, Christine Boulter, Penny Taylor, Jo McMillan, Shauna Jackson, and Lisa Raith. "Mental health interprofessional education for health professions students: bridging the gaps." Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice 9, no. 1 (April 8, 2014): 35–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/jmhtep-09-2012-0030.
Full textAbstract:
Purpose – Government-run mental health services in Australia run predominantly on a multidisciplinary team (MDT) model. Literature and observation from practice shows that interprofessional tertiary sector training is absent, ad hoc or not documented, leaving students inadequately prepared for disciplinary differences in opinions and practices. Learning in interprofessional educational settings provides one way of overcoming the difficulties. The purpose of this paper is to describe the outcomes of an interprofessional learning experience targeting final year Australian students enroled in health promotion, registered nursing, enroled nursing, paramedic science, psychology, social work and occupational therapy who are intending to work in mental health teams. Design/methodology/approach – Using a mixed method, pre- and post-test design (four time intervals), with data collected from three scales and open-ended questions, this study measured participant changes in knowledge and attitudes towards interprofessional education and mental health. The study also examined students’ and educators’ perceptions of the value of an interprofessional teaching and learning model. Findings – There was a significant increase in clinical confidence at each time interval, suggesting that the intervention effects were maintained up to three months post-training. Themes about the value of interprofessional learning in mental health were extracted from student data: learning expanded students’ appreciation for difference; this in turn expanded students’ cross-disciplinary communication skills; growing appreciation for diverse world views was seen to be relevant to person-centred mental healthcare; and practice articulating one's own disciplinary views clarified professional identity. Research limitations/implications – Generalisability of the outcomes beyond the disciplines sampled in this research is limited. MDTs typically include doctors, but we were unable to include medical students because the university did not offer a medical programme. The readiness for participation in a collaborative MDT approach may differ among students groups, disciplines and universities and technical and further educations. There may also be differences not accounted for in these findings between undergraduate students and established healthcare professionals. Further research needs to establish whether the findings are applicable to other student groups and to professionals who already work within MDTs. Originality/value – These results demonstrate that intensive interprofessional learning experiences in tertiary education can be effective means of increasing students’ awareness of the role of other professionals in MDT.
21
McCann, Terence V., Michael Savic, Nyssa Ferguson, Alison Cheetham, Katrina Witt, Kate Emond, Emma Bosley, Karen Smith, Louise Roberts, and Dan I. Lubman. "Recognition of, and attitudes towards, people with depression and psychosis with/without alcohol and other drug problems: results from a national survey of Australian paramedics." BMJ Open 8, no. 12 (December 2018): e023860. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023860.
Full textAbstract:
ObjectiveContinuing stigma towards mental health problems means that many individuals—especially men—will first present in crisis, with emergency services often the first point of call. Given this situation, the aims of this paper were to assess paramedics’ ability to recognise, and their attitudes towards, males with clinically defined depression and psychosis with and without comorbid alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems.MethodsA cross-sectional national online survey of 1230 paramedics throughout Australia. The survey was based on four vignettes: depression with suicidal thoughts, depression with suicidal thoughts and comorbid alcohol problems, and psychosis with and without comorbid AOD problems.ResultsJust under half of respondents recognised depression, but this decreased markedly to one-fifth when comorbid AOD problems were added to the vignette. In contrast, almost 90% recognised psychosis, but this decreased to just under 60% when comorbid AOD problems were added. Respondents were more likely to hold stigmatising attitudes towards people in the vignettes with depression and psychosis when comorbid AOD problems were present. Respondents endorsed questionnaire items assessing perceived social stigma more strongly than personal stigma. Desire for social distance was greater in vignettes focusing on psychosis with and without comorbid AOD problems than depression with and without comorbid AOD problems.ConclusionsParamedics need a well-crafted multicomponent response which involves cultural change within their organisations and more education to improve their recognition of, and attitudes towards, clients with mental health and AOD problems. Education should focus on the recognition and care of people with specific mental disorders rather than on mental disorders in general. It is essential that education also focuses on understanding and caring for people with AOD problems. Educational interventions should focus on aligning beliefs about public perceptions with personal beliefs about people with mental disorders and AOD problems.
22
Hartley, Jason. "Mass casualty incidents and tactical medical capabilities amongst first responders." Scholarship Supplement, Scholarship Supplement (February 18, 2019): 1–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.33553/jhtam.v0i0.11.
Full textAbstract:
In August 2018, I was awarded the inaugural Australian Tactical Medical Association (ATMA) study grant to attend the International Public Safety Association (IPSA) Fall 2018 Symposium in Virginia, United States of America (USA) and conduct research in tactical medical methodologies utilised by first responders. This report outlines the outcomes of my objectives for the study grant: •Record the content and lessons learnt by attendance at the International Public Safety Association (IPSA) 2018 Fall Symposium; and •Explore tactical medical methodologies, particularly within law enforcement and its application to Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) response. The IPSA Fall 2018 Symposium primarily focused on MCIs and the planning, response and recovery to such incidents by first responders, such as Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs), Paramedics/Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Firefighters and other emergency personnel. Due to operational sensitivities, some information or conversations from engagements is redacted. This, however, has not affected the substance of this report nor its recommendations. My goal for this study grant is to promote awareness and education to groups or organisations which have had limited exposure to tactical medical methodologies or MCIs. Through simple knowledge and equipment, survivability amongst victims and first responders can be significantly improved.
23
Smith, Erin C., Frederick M. Burkle, Paul F. Holman, Justin M. Dunlop, and Frank L. Archer. "Lessons from the Front Lines: The Prehospital Experience of the 2009 Novel H1N1 Outbreak in Victoria, Australia." Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness 3, S2 (December 2009): S154—S159. http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/dmp.0b013e3181be8250.
Full textAbstract:
ABSTRACTThe H1N1 (swine influenza) 2009 outbreak in Victoria, Australia, provided a unique opportunity to review the prehospital response to a public health emergency. As part of Ambulance Victoria’s response to the outbreak, relevant emergency response plans and pandemic plans were instigated, focused efforts were aimed at encouraging the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and additional questions were included in the call-taking script for telephone triage of emergency calls to identify potential cases of H1N1 from the point of call. As a result, paramedics were alerted to all potential cases of H1N1 influenza or any patient who met the current case definition before their arrival on the scene and were advised to use appropriate PPE. During the period of May 1 to July 2, Ambulance Victoria telephone triaged 1598 calls relating to H1N1 (1228 in metropolitan areas and 243 in rural areas) and managed 127 calls via a referral service that provides specific telephone triage for potential H1N1 influenza cases based on the national call-taking script. The referral service determines whether a patient requires an emergency ambulance or can be diverted to other resources such as flu clinics. Key lessons learned during the H1N1 outbreak include a focused need for continued education and communication regarding infection control and the appropriate use of PPE. Current guidelines regarding PPE use are adequate for use during an outbreak of infectious disease. Compliance with PPE needs to be addressed through the use of intra-agency communications and regular information updates early in the progress of the outbreak. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2009;3(Suppl 2):S154–S159)
24
Cochrane, Thomas, and Vickel Narayan. "A Model for Developing a SOTEL Research Cluster." Pacific Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning 2, no. 1 (November 11, 2019): 11–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.24135/pjtel.v2i1.31.
Full textAbstract:
This case study critically reflects upon the development of a scholarship of technology enhanced learning (SOTEL) research cluster in clinical sciences higher education. The research cluster has grown from an initial community of practice established in 2015 in the context of Paramedicine education (Cochrane, Cook, Aiello, Harrison, & Aguayo, 2016), to a collaborative transdisciplinary research cluster that now encompasses: the School of Clinical Sciences, Journalism, the Centre for Teaching And Learning, the AppLAB, and international research partners (Cochrane, 2019; Cochrane et al., 2018). The MESH360 research cluster (initially standing for the Multiple Environment Simulation VR Hub, but now covering the growing body of immersive reality enhanced learning projects) focuses upon the common domain of the exploration of immersive reality to enhance higher education to develop student creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
The research cluster is built upon the shared ontology, epistemology, and research methodology of the wider SOTEL research cluster hub (https://sotel.nz/about-the-cluster/). We established an ecology of resources to support the research cluster (Cochrane & Narayan, 2018), and encourage open educational practice via social media, publishing in open access channels, and regular project showcases. Outcomes from the MESH360 research cluster include: innovative curriculum design, journal articles, conference proceedings, 2 Vice Chancellors teaching innovation awards, a Prime Minister’s research scholarship, and award of a variety of internal project funding. The activity of the research cluster is curated in a ResearchGate Project at https://www.researchgate.net/project/MESH360 and on social media via the #MESH360 hashtag. While the activity of the MESH360 has been predominantly within the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, we are seeing wider impact into Schools within the other Faculties at the university, and potential national and international collaborations.
The SOTEL model includes the following main elements:
An online hub - The SOTEL Research Cluster https://sotel.nz/
An annual Symposium showcasing SOTEL in practice https://sotel.nz
The Pacific Journal of Educational Technology (PJTEL)
The CMALT cMOOC and the MOSOMELT cMOOC
A weekly webinar series
Brokering international TEL networks such as the ASCILITE Mobile Learning Special Interest Group
A series of TEL workshops and showcases
The presentation will outline the above elements of the SOTEL Research Cluster. We believe the MESH360 research cluster model can be applied to a wide variety of higher education domains.
References
Cochrane, T. (2019). How AUT is Designing Authentic Student Learning Experiences with Immersive Reality. Paper presented at the 2nd New Zealand Digital Campus and Blended Learning Transformation From K6 to Higher education: Immersive AR/VR, blended learning innovations and next generation learning spaces, Stamford Plaza, Auckland, New Zealand. https://tinyurl.com/SOTELprojects
Cochrane, T., Cook, S., Aiello, S., Harrison, D., & Aguayo, C. (2016, 28-30 November). Designing Virtual Reality Environments for Paramedic Education: MESH360. Paper presented at the Show Me The Learning. Proceedings ASCILITE 2016 Adelaide, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
Cochrane, T., & Narayan, V. (2018, 25-29 June, 2018). The Scholarship of Technology Enhanced Learning: Reimagining SOTL for the Social Network Age. Paper presented at the EdMedia: World Conference on Educational Media and Technology 2018, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Cochrane, T., Stretton, T., Aiello, S., Britnell, S., Cook, S., & Narayan, V. (2018). Authentic Interprofessional Health Education Scenarios using Mobile VR. Research in Learning Technology, 26, 2130. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.25304/rlt.v26.2130
25
Cooper, Esther, Ann Hutchinson, Zain Sheikh, Paul Taylor, Will Townend, and Miriam J. Johnson. "Palliative care in the emergency department: A systematic literature qualitative review and thematic synthesis." Palliative Medicine 32, no. 9 (July 20, 2018): 1443–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0269216318783920.
Full textAbstract:
Background: Despite a fast-paced environment, the emergency clinician has a duty to meet the palliative patient’s needs. Despite suggested models and interventions, this remains challenging in practice. Aim: To raise awareness of these challenges by exploring the experience of palliative care patients and their families and informal carers attending the emergency department, and of the clinicians caring for them. Design: Qualitative systematic literature review and thematic synthesis. Search terms related to the population (palliative care patients, family carers, clinicians), exposure (the emergency department) and outcome (experience). The search was international but restricted to English and used a qualitative filter. Title, abstracts and, where retrieved, full texts were reviewed independently by two reviewers against predefined inclusion criteria arbitrated by a third reviewer. Studies were appraised for quality but not excluded on that basis. Data sources: MEDLINE [1946-], Embase[1947-], CINAHL [1981-] and PsycINFO [1987-] with a bibliography search. Results: 19 papers of 16 studies were included from Australia ( n = 5), the United Kingdom ( n = 5), and United States ( n = 9) representing 482 clinical staff involved in the emergency department (doctors, nurses, paramedics, social workers, technicians), 61 patients and 36 carers. Nine descriptive themes formed three analytic themes: ‘Environment and Purpose’, ‘Systems of Care and Interdisciplinary Working’ and ‘Education and Training’. Conclusion: In the included studies, provision of emergency palliative care is a necessary purpose of the emergency department. Failure to recognise this, gain the necessary skills or change to systems better suited to its delivery perpetuates poor implementation of palliative care in this environment.
26
Tracy, Jane M. "People with an intellectual disability in the discourse of chronic and complex conditions: an invisible group?" Australian Health Review 33, no. 3 (2009): 478. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah090478.
Full textAbstract:
TO THE EDITOR: Goddard et al, authors of ?People with an intellectual disability in the discourse of chronic and complex conditions: an invisible group??1 are to be congratulated for raising discussion about one of the most vulnerable groups in Australia with respect to their receipt of optimal health care. The authors conclude that ?developing interventions and strategies to increase the knowledge of health care workers . . . caring for people with intellectual disabilities will likely improve the health care needs of this population and their families?. In relation to this identified need for health professional education and training in the care of people with intellectual disabilities, we would like to draw the attention of your readers to some work undertaken by the Centre for Developmental Disability Health Victoria (CDDHV) to address this issue. The CDDHV works to improve the health and health care of people with developmental disabilities through a range of educational, research and clinical activities. In recent years there has been an increasing awareness of the need for health professional education in this area. Moreover, as people with disabilities often have chronic and complex health and social issues, focusing on their health care provides a platform for interprofessional education and a springboard for understanding the essential importance and value of interprofessional practice. Recently, the CDDHV has taken a lead role in developing a teaching and learning resource that focuses both on the health care of people with disabilities and on the importance and value of interprofessional practice. This resource promotes and facilitates interprofessional learning, and develops understanding of the health and health care issues experienced by people with disabilities and those who support them. ?Health and disability: partnerships in action? is a new video-based teaching and learning package, produced through an interprofessional collaboration between health professionals from medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, paramedic practice, health science, social work, speech pathology, dietetics and dentistry. Those living with a disability are the experts on their own experience and so their direct involvement in and contribution to the education of health care professionals is essential. The collaboration between those featured in the video stories and health professionals has led to the development of a powerful resource that facilitates students and practitioners developing insights into the health and health care issues encountered by people with developmental disabilities. We also believe that through improving their understanding of, and health provision to, people with disabilities and those who support them, health professionals will acquire valuable attitudes, knowledge and skills applicable to many other patients in their practice population. Jane M Tracy Education Director Centre for Developmental Disability Health Victoria Melbourne, VIC
27
Pokhrel, Rishi. "Medical Education in Nepal and Brain Drain." Medical Journal of Shree Birendra Hospital 16, no. 1 (August 21, 2017): 1–2. http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/mjsbh.v16i1.18076.
Full textAbstract:
It has been four decades since the beginning of undergraduate medical education in Nepal and more than three decades of postgraduate medical education.1 Currently, Institute of Medicine of Tribhuwan University and Kathmandu University are major institutions providing medical education in Nepal with the help of their affiliated medical colleges. Two other deemed universities, B P Koirala Institute of Health Sciences and Patan Academy of Health Sciences also have major contributions in producing medical doctors in Nepal. National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) provides postgraduate and super specialty training for doctors. Nepal Medical Council is the regulatory body that lays down the guidelines, provides accreditation and supervises to ensure that the regulations are being followed.2 It also conducts licensing examination for medical doctors.Educationalists worldwide vary in their opinions on the aim of education3-8 but Salomon precisely includes almost all of them as “The aim (of education) is to equip the learner with portable chunks of knowledge, skill, and understandings that can serve in other contexts.”9 Adkoli has analyzed migration of health workers in south Asia 10 and found that there was no systematically collected data regarding the extent of migration of healthcare workers and its possible impact on health care in Nepal. Nepal government spends a significant chunk of its financial resources to train doctors but many students who avail this benefit of ‘scholarship’ take part in the migration described in the article. Ironically, many doctors who are currently serving their motherland were either trained overseas or the ones who did study within Nepal but without availing any support from the government. When the first medical school was established in Nepal, the idea was to develop doctors who can prevent, diagnose and treat medical ailments prevalent in Nepal (Community based curriculum) and the career planning was designed in such a way that doctors were inevitably retained in Nepal. The philosophy of this system was contrary to the definition laid down by Salomon9 but it did benefit the society and the country in the long run11. Things changed gradually over time and currently the doctors produced by oldest and state funded medical colleges of Nepal are ideal for health job markets of first world countries. This suitability coupled with adverse socieo-economic and political factors of our country has led most students who become doctors by state funding opting to serve in first world countries like United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada.Brain drain in Health sector is a global phenomenon12, 13, but developing countries like Nepal receive maximum brunt. Lately, Nepalese medical education sector has been receiving a fair share of attention from all including media. However, it is saddening that this issue of ‘brain drain’ is something that had not gained any attention. Coming back to Adkoli’s work, we don't even have a data on how many doctors we are losing every year?10 There have been certain restrictions and bondages but these sorts of legislations have been seen to work contrarily. What is found to be lacking is the sense of belonging and development of the feeling that ‘I am important to this society and I must work for its betterment’. Most young doctors have a feeling that ‘there is no one taking me seriously anyway and it doesn't really matter weather I stay or Leave’.It is high time policy makers ensure that the medical doctors that we produce from the common men’s hard earned money serve the country. In addition to the legislations in the form of bondage, we should be able to install the feeling of belonging and sense of importance in the hearts and minds of these young doctors. To begin with, it would be a good idea if we start maintaining the database of the medical graduates that were and will be produced from Nepalese medical colleges; taking examples from many colleges from other countries that are doing it currently.14-16 Zimmerman’s study cited earlier provides an interesting insight that medical students with pre-medical education as paramedics were twice as likely to be working in Nepal and 3.5 times as likely to be in rural Nepal, compared with students with a college science background.11 We can also include into the undergraduate medical curriculum the concepts of social ethics, moral values, social justice and the long-term benefits of serving the society and the country that has invested so much for their education.
28
McKeon, Grace, Zachary Steel, Ruth Wells, Jill Newby, Dusan Hadzi-Pavlovic, Davy Vancampfort, and Simon Rosenbaum. "A Mental Health–Informed Physical Activity Intervention for First Responders and Their Partners Delivered Using Facebook: Mixed Methods Pilot Study." JMIR Formative Research 5, no. 4 (April 22, 2021): e23432. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/23432.
Full textAbstract:
Background First responders (eg, police, firefighters, and paramedics) are at high risk of experiencing poor mental health. Physical activity interventions can help reduce symptoms and improve mental health in this group. More research is needed to evaluate accessible, low-cost methods of delivering programs. Social media may be a potential platform for delivering group-based physical activity interventions. Objective This study aims to examine the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a mental health–informed physical activity program for first responders and their self-nominated support partners. This study also aims to assess the feasibility of applying a novel multiple time series design and to explore the impact of the intervention on mental health symptoms, sleep quality, quality of life, and physical activity levels. Methods We co-designed a 10-week web-based physical activity program delivered via a private Facebook group. We provided education and motivation around different topics weekly (eg, goal setting, overcoming barriers to exercise, and reducing sedentary behavior) and provided participants with a Fitbit. A multiple time series design was applied to assess psychological distress levels, with participants acting as their own control before the intervention. Results In total, 24 participants (12 first responders and 12 nominated support partners) were recruited, and 21 (88%) completed the postassessment questionnaires. High acceptability was observed in the qualitative interviews. Exploratory analyses revealed significant reductions in psychological distress during the intervention. Preintervention and postintervention analysis showed significant improvements in quality of life (P=.001; Cohen d=0.60); total depression, anxiety, and stress scores (P=.047; Cohen d=0.35); and minutes of walking (P=.04; Cohen d=0.55). Changes in perceived social support from family (P=.07; Cohen d=0.37), friends (P=.10; Cohen d=0.38), and sleep quality (P=.28; Cohen d=0.19) were not significant. Conclusions The results provide preliminary support for the use of social media and a multiple time series design to deliver mental health–informed physical activity interventions for first responders and their support partners. Therefore, an adequately powered trial is required. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN): 12618001267246; https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001267246.
29
Johnston, Steve. "Paramedics in Australia. Contemporary challenges of practice." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 3 (August 6, 2009). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.3.167.
Full textAbstract:
This book on first inspection appears to be another book aimed at the clinical theories associated with paramedical practice and education with a cover picture of three students performing a scenario on a manikin. However it is anything but, rather it is an examination of the development of the ambulance culture, the direction of the profession and issues that pertain to the industry and how this affects paramedics and their practice in an Australian context.
30
Brooks, Ingrid Ann, Hugh Grantham, Caroline Spencer, and Frank Archer. "A review of the literature: the transition of entry-level paramedic education in Australia from vocational to higher education (1961–2017)." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 15, no. 2 (May 6, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.15.2.584.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionToday in Australia, university degree programs provide the education pathway into the paramedic profession reflecting a more than 50-year process of transition from on-the-job first aid training. The formal organisation of paramedic education began in the early 1960s with the establishment of ambulance service training centres. The factors that contributed to this transition are poorly described when compared with that of paramedics in other parts of the world such as the United States and England. The history of Australian paramedic education is important to capture for the benefit of the profession in Australia and to situate it within a global context of modern emergency medical services. This paper examines the peer reviewed and grey literature to chart the transition of Australian paramedic education from vocational to higher education and uncovers signposts of change leading to this transition.MethodsFollowing a systematic search of MEDLINE and CINAHL Plus databases, the university library collection, Google and the websites of Australian ambulance services, Paramedics Australasia (PA) and the Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA), 31 reports, 12 journal articles and three texts are included in this review.ResultsAdvances in emergency medicine, vocational education training sector reform in the 1970s and 1980s, reviews into ambulance services, health workforce reform and the efforts of PA and CAA contributed to the transition to university-based education, development of university paramedic program accreditation standards and, ultimately, progression towards registration and professionalisation. These signposts of change that chart developments in Australian paramedic education however, proved difficult to uncover in the literature.ConclusionUnexpectedly, this review finds peak Australian ambulance and paramedic professional bodies perceive difficulty in influencing policy direction that impacts the profession. Absence of thorough and detailed accounts of Australian paramedic education keeps hidden a unique and important history. We invite further research to preserve the history of paramedic education in Australia within the public domain, to assist the profession to understand what went before and to inform its future directions.
31
Jackson, Dianne. "Paramedic education: developing depth through networks and evidence-based research - Where from and where to?" Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 2 (May 7, 2009). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.2.160.
Full textAbstract:
A collaboration between the nine Australian universities who currently offer paramedic undergraduate programmes, the project was set up to investigate international models of best practice for fostering the ideal working relationship between graduate paramedics, ambulance service providers, professional associations and universities, while meeting the educational needs of future paramedics in Australia.
32
Reid, David, Kenneth Street, Shelley Beatty, Stefan Vencatachellum, and Brennen Mills. "Preparedness of graduate paramedics for practice: a comparison of Australian and United Kingdom education pathways." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 16 (May 7, 2019). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.16.666.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionInternationally, emergency ambulance paramedic education has evolved from ‘on the job’ training by ambulance services to tertiary-level qualifications. However, across many countries and jurisdictions, clinical practicum requirements still differ substantially. For example, Australian paramedic students spend fewer hours on clinical practicum than their United Kingdom (UK) counterparts.MethodsFifteen semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with Australian and UK paramedics and managers to identify their perceptions regarding the preparedness of graduate paramedics for practice. ResultsInterviewees in Australia and the UK identified that newly graduated paramedics require an internship period before independent practice. Interviewees in both jurisdictions recognised the robust theoretical knowledge and practical skills of graduates. Organisational operations, clinical judgement and decision-making, and care-pathway selection were areas where interviewees identified that an internship period consolidated the graduate’s learning. ConclusionThis research found that increased time spent by paramedic students on ambulances did not increase a new graduate’s ability to practice independently before an internship period. The time spent on ambulance practicums, objectives and supervisory model should be reviewed.
33
Parent, Alex, Ryan Smith, Ruth Townsend, and Tania Johnston. "Mental health education in Australian paramedic curriculum – A scoping review." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 17 (August 21, 2020). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.17.791.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionMental health represents a growing concern for health services in Australia. Paramedics are increasingly becoming the first point-of-contact for patients experiencing an acute mental health episode. Despite this increasing prevalence of cases there is an established body of literature outlining that paramedics feel inadequately trained to manage these patients. AimThis research aimed to identify how the management of acutely unwell mental health patients is included in paramedic curricula in Australia. MethodsA scoping review methodology was used in association with a thematic analysis of university learning outcomes related to mental health education for Bachelor of Paramedic programs in Australia. It was identified that there are considerable discrepancies between university learning outcomes for mental health education of paramedics. DiscussionMental health management of patients is not integrated throughout curricula, with most students only being exposed to mental health education once in their degree usually as a theoretical subject with no specific mental health practice placement. Further, the existence of discrepancies regarding mental health management education between paramedic courses creates an unequal minimum standard of education among graduating paramedic students. ConclusionGiven the prevalence of mental health cases and the special powers that paramedics have to manage these cases, as well as the fact that mental health does not discriminate between jurisdictions (ie. patients present and should be managed similarly in all states and territories), the authors argue that special consideration by the profession should be given to mandating a consistency in mental health management education across all paramedic Bachelor degree programs.
34
Acker, Joseph James, and Tania Johnston. "The demographic and clinical practice profile of Australian remote and industrial paramedics: Findings from a workforce survey." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 18 (August 18, 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.18.959.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionA large workforce is employed in remote environments in the Australian mining and fuel sectors. Whereas paramedics are increasingly assuming roles as healthcare providers in these locations, little is known about industrial paramedic practice. The aim of this exploratory study was to better understand the demographics, education, clinical practice and work environment of the Australian paramedic workforce in remote and industrial settings to inform future research and education for the emerging specialty. Methods Web-based respondent driven network sampling was used to recruit remote and industrial paramedics in this cross-sectional descriptive study. A self-administered questionnaire elicited responses (n=111) about participant demographics, work environment, initial and continuing education, and clinical scope of practice. ResultsParamedic participants working in remote and industrial settings are predominately male (86.5%) with the majority aged 35 to 44 years (38.7%). Their job titles range widely and include paramedic, intensive care paramedic, industrial, mine and offshore paramedics. Participants report an average of 15.4 years of total healthcare experience and working in the remote or industrial health sector for a mean of 7.1 years, primarily in Western Australia (34.2%). These paramedics often engage in continuing education, with 45% studying at a vocational or tertiary institution at the time of the survey. Most respondents (63.9%) describe their employment as directly or indirectly related to the natural resource sector and 75.7% have experience in remote settings such as camps, mining sites, offshore platforms, vessels or small communities. Most practitioners (59.5%) work in a full-time capacity and can perform core paramedic skills including intravenous cannulation, 12-lead electrocardiogram interpretation, chest needle decompression and restricted drug administration. Additionally, more than 40% of those actively working in the sector report having endotracheal intubation and intraosseous access in their scope of practice. They also administer immunisations, antibiotics and other prescription medications, manage chronic diseases, and perform low acuity skills typically included in a community paramedic role. ConclusionThis workforce survey is the first of its kind designed to gain a broader understanding of the paramedic practitioners who work in remote and industrial settings and the characteristics of their work environment. Key areas highlighted by this study serve to inform professional regulators, educators and employers with respect to the skills that remote and industrial paramedics perform and the education that is required to support the evolving specialised practice.
35
Roberts, Louise, and Julie Henderson. "Paramedic perceptions of their role, education, training and working relationships when attending cases of mental illness." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 3 (August 6, 2009). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.3.175.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction This study explores the perceptions of paramedics regarding their role, education and training, organisational culture and interaction with allied professionals when attending suspected or known cases of mental illness. The study uses the South Australian Ambulance Service (SAAS) clinical data to establish a quantitative measure of workload in relation to cases that have been classified as psychiatric. It examines how paramedics perceive their use of the resources currently in place to support practice and their role when dealing with patients displaying mental illness. Methods Data were sourced from the SAAS clinical database, a survey and three focus groups. One hundred and fifty surveys were distributed to career paramedic staff in both metropolitan and regional centres of South Australia with a response rate of 49.3% (n=74). The survey was analysed using descriptive statistics to compare paramedics‟ perceptions of workload and time-on-scene with the quantitative data from the SAAS Clinical Database. Thematic analysis was undertaken of the open questions from the survey and focus groups data. Results The analysis of workload and time-on-scene showed significant differences between the SAAS database and paramedic perceptions. The survey and focus groups discussed themes in relation to paramedic practice: the role of paramedics in managing mental illness, education and training, organisational culture and interdisciplinary relationships. Conclusion Mentally ill patients comprise a growing proportion of the workload of paramedics. This descriptive and exploratory study identifies issues in relation to their perception of workload, education and training, organisational culture and their working relationships with other services. Further research is recommended to understand how these perceptions affect paramedic practice in this area.
36
Collings-Hughes, Derek, Ruth Townsend, and Brett Williams. "Paramedic use and understanding of their professional code of conduct." Nursing Ethics, October 31, 2022, 096973302211306. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/09697330221130607.
Full textAbstract:
Background Paramedicine is a newly regulated profession in Australia and with the introduction of regulation in 2018 for this profession came increased responsibilities – including the introduction of a professional code of conduct. Several countries now have regulation of paramedicine and associated professional codes to guide ethical and professional behaviour. Despite this, there has been no published research into paramedic understanding and use of their professional codes. Objectives To explore Australian paramedics’ use and understanding of their professional code of conduct. Research design: This study used a qualitative descriptive design, underpinned by hermeneutic theory. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview data and identify Australian paramedic perceptions surrounding the use of their code of conduct. Results 11 Registered Paramedics from several states and territories were interviewed. Participants were invited to interview by advertisement on social media and the Australasian College of Paramedicine Web site. Participants had varied professional backgrounds including clinical work, education providers and policymakers/managers. Four themes were identified as follows: Theme 1 – ‘You don’t know, what you can’t know’; Theme 2 – ‘I don’t need the code – the code is for others’; Theme 3 – ‘It’s about time’; Theme 4 – ‘Navigating the new profession’. Ethical considerations: Ethics approval was granted by the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (MUHREC) Project ID: 28921. All participants provided informed consent. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that paramedics’ knowledge and use of their code is limited, and participants appeared to mostly rely instead on ‘common sense’ morals. Participants did appear to want to understand the broad concepts of the code more and have this better integrated into the profession. The code was also interpreted as important to the paramedic profession and its new professional status, helping to legitimise it as a health profession in Australia.
37
O'Meara, Peter, Helen Hickson, and Chris Huggins. "Starting the conversation: What are the issues for paramedic student clinical education?" Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 11, no. 4 (July 24, 2014). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.11.4.4.
Full textAbstract:
ObjectivesThis paper examines the issues that affect the quality of paramedic student clinical placements. Participants included paramedics, paramedic educators, paramedic students and ambulance service managers who had gathered for an Australian conference in Bendigo in central Victoria. The aim of this paper is to highlight issues identified by the participants and to start a conversation about the importance of clinical placement for paramedic students.MethodsThis was a qualitative study utilising ‘Community conversations’ as a research methodology. ‘Community conversations’ is an action research approach. This study had 53 participants, who spent around 5 hours in conversation throughout a 3-day conference. The conversation initiated was to discuss and raise issues that related to paramedic student clinical placements, and identify creative and innovative solutions.ResultsIn this paper, we focus on three themes that emerged from the conversations: planning and preparation of the placement; continuity of placement experience; and diversity of placements. We argue that better communication is required between the university, the ambulance service, the paramedic educator/clinical instructor and the student.ConclusionsClinical education is an essential element of student learning and skill development, yet in Australia there are no mandatory requirements in relation to duration, content or measurement of quality in student clinical placements. We strongly recommend that continuity is an essential element of a quality clinical placement and argue that students should be allocated to work in one location for 1–2 week blocks.
38
Spencer, Caroline, Rhona Macdonald, and Frank Archer. "Surveys of Cultural Competency in Health Professional Education: A literature review." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 6, no. 2 (July 16, 2015). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.6.2.453.
Full textAbstract:
A literature review, in advance of designing a survey of cultural competency in Australian and New Zealand paramedic education courses, provides the focus of this paper. The review sought to explore the extent to which other health professions include cultural competency in their undergraduate curriculum. The literature review identified specific research papers that used survey methods to determine the status of cultural competency training in other health professions. With no paramedic specific information available to inform paramedic education, these research papers formed a basis for designing a survey that would examine the extent to which paramedic education includes cultural competency in its curricula. This paper is timely for informing paramedic education about surveys on cultural competency in health professional education. It is particularly timely for the paramedic profession, which is currently in transition from a vocationally based occupation to a professionally based discipline within a university setting; and, at a time when a small number of student paramedics are opting to take advantage of an Honours degree. Similarly, experienced paramedics are undertaking Masters and Doctoral research programs in prehospital and paramedic related issues. Such opportunities enable paramedics to extend their career prospects into academic research, an opportunity that was previously untenable. The process of reviewing the literature to develop a paramedic specific survey provides useful information for paramedics who may want to undertake similar research projects to examine other aspects of the curriculum. This paper, therefore, contributes to both developing an appreciation of the complex issues which arise from this process, and establishes an evidence base foundation for the paramedic discipline as it emerges within an academic and research orientated environment. The lessons learned in reviewing surveys might be useful for other health professions and emergency service researchers.
39
Williams, Brett, Andrys Onsman, and Ted Brown. "From stretcher-bearer to paramedic: the Australian paramedics’ move towards professionalisation." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 4 (January 23, 2019). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.4.187.
Full textAbstract:
Over the last one hundred and twenty years, the Australian paramedic sector has changed dramatically; influenced and informed by a range of social, health, economic, professional, and political forces. However, there has been little reflection of those changes in either the perception of the discipline as a profession or the manner in which its membership is trained, socialised, and educated. This paper explores the links between professionalisation and education in the paramedic field. Paramedics are currently at best seen as a 'semi-profession' and a great deal of discussion about whether the discipline actually wants to achieve full professional status exists. Comparisons will be made with the professions of nursing and physiotherapy, outlining how and why they progressed from a semi-professional status to a fully recognised profession, culminating in a discussion about which characteristics the paramedics discipline as yet lacks. A review of common professional traits suggests three areas where the discipline falls short: 1) the delineation of its professional compass, especially in relation to extant recognised cognate (and competitive) professions, 2) National registration and regulation resulting in professional self-control and accreditation, and 3) Higher Education and the development of a unique body of professional knowledge. Finally it will be argued that the recognition and addressing of the gaps by the relevant policymakers, regulators, employers and academics will lead to the formulation of strategies that are most likely to result in professional status for paramedics in Australia.
40
Williams, Brett, Andrys Onsman, and Ted Brown. "From stretcher-bearer to paramedic: the Australian paramedics’ move towards professionalisation." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 4 (May 7, 2009). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.4.191.
Full textAbstract:
Over the last one hundred and twenty years, the Australian paramedic sector has changed dramatically; influenced and informed by a range of social, health, economic, professional, and political forces. However, there has been little reflection of those changes in either the perception of the discipline as a profession or the manner in which its membership is trained, socialised, and educated. This paper explores the links between professionalisation and education in the paramedic field. Paramedics are currently at best seen as a „semi-profession‟ and a great deal of discussion about whether the discipline actually wants to achieve full professional status exists. Comparisons will be made with the professions of nursing and physiotherapy, outlining how and why they progressed from a semi-professional status to a fully recognised profession, culminating in a discussion about which characteristics the paramedics discipline as yet lacks. A review of common professional traits suggests three areas where the discipline falls short: 1) the delineation of its professional compass, especially in relation to extant recognised cognate (and competitive) professions, 2) National registration and regulation resulting in professional self-control and accreditation, and 3) Higher Education and the development of a unique body of professional knowledge. Finally it will be argued that the recognition and addressing of the gaps by the relevant policymakers, regulators, employers and academics will lead to the formulation of strategies that are most likely to result in professional status for paramedics in Australia. What
41
Bell, Andrew, and Steve Whitfield. "Mentor or tormentor? A commentary on the fractured role of mentoring in paramedicine." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 18 (October 10, 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.18.984.
Full textAbstract:
The relatively quick evolution of paramedicine and the inevitable ‘growing pains’ associated with an evolving profession has seen mentoring and the role of the mentor become clouded in confusion, ineffective education and a lack of specific research. Paramedicine’s recent development as a registered profession has also seen mentoring explicitly outlined as being a capability expected of all registered paramedics. However, the paramedic-mentoring model in Australia seems to have been mostly left up to the individual paramedic to develop in isolation from adequate training and mentoring themselves. If paramedicine is to continue its evolution as a legitimate healthcare profession, the quality of clinical mentoring must be acknowledged as a significant factor by higher education institutions, and the public and private services who employ paramedics, and nurtured accordingly.
42
O’Brien, Kylie, Amber Moore, David Dawson, and Peter Hartley. "An Australian story: Paramedic education and practice in transition." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 11, no. 3 (May 5, 2014). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.11.3.14.
Full textAbstract:
In Australia, western medicine and the majority of allied healthcare professions are regulated via statutory regulation. For most of these allied healthcare professions, education has moved into the higher education (HE) sector and universities. The profession of paramedics is undergoing a transition in terms of scope of practice, and in particular education, moving from a post-employment model characterised by on-the-job training, to a pre-employment model, essentially full time university-based Bachelor degree education, similar to the change that occurred in nursing in Australia many years ago. How to produce work-ready graduates in the healthcare professions is of concern for educators and professional associations. Research into work-readiness in several healthcare fields has yielded important information that may be utilised by paramedic and other allied healthcare educators to improve courses. This paper discusses issues of transition of HE healthcare graduates into the workforce that need to be considered by educators, with a particular focus on the profession of paramedics in Australia. It also summarises key findings of research into work-readiness in a range of healthcare professions.
43
Mulholland, Peter, Peter O’Meara, Judith Walker, Christine Stirling, and Vianne Tourle. "Multidisciplinary Practice in Action: The Rural Paramedic – It’s Not Only Lights and Sirens." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 7, no. 2 (May 7, 2009). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.7.2.166.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction This paper examines the Tasmanian portion of a four state study commissioned by the Australian Council of Ambulance Authorities in order to examine the expanded scope of practice for Australian rural paramedics. The objectives of this paper were to describe the expanded role for the rural paramedic on the East Coast of Tasmania and determine what factors facilitate this role. Methods This study uses qualitative methods. Three sources of data were used for this study: a) semi-structured interviews with key informants; b) direct observation of key processes and events, and c) review of documents describing the paramedic role and required organisational and educational support. The semi-structured interviews included questions relating to the role of the paramedic, involvement with other health disciplines, and interactions within the general community. Results The study revealed how paramedics on the East Coast of Tasmania have developed a multidisciplinary and multifaceted approach to health care. Emergency care does not end at the hospital doorstep and involves co-operation between paramedics and hospital staff in ongoing care. Doctors and other health professionals who have previously been involved in after hours call outs, training of volunteer ambulance personnel are now free from these additional and often time-consuming tasks. Paramedics have been welcomed as part of the health care team in the area and have been responsible for development of effective working relationships with hospital staff and doctors, volunteers and community members. An important part of these relationships is the health education provided by paramedics. Conclusion Emergency response in rural areas is only a small part of paramedic practice. This study has identified elements of rural paramedic practice that highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary and community based response to patient care in rural areas namely community involvement, organisational support, professional support, and appropriate education and training. Much of these are rooted in a footing of informality. The move from informality to a more formal framework will perhaps enable rural paramedic practice to emerge as a discipline in its own right, as an integral part of a rural multidisciplinary health care team.
44
Sawyer, Simon, Angela Williams, Auston Rotheram, and Brett Williams. "The knowledge, attitudes and preparedness of Australian paramedics to manage intimate partner violence patients – a pilot study." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 15, no. 2 (May 6, 2018). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.15.2.564.
Full textAbstract:
IntroductionAustralian ambulance services are currently attempting to improve their capacity to respond to intimate partner violence (IPV) patients, which is a significant contributing factor to the morbidity and mortality of women. Leading health organisations have called for increased training for frontline health care workers, however there is a paucity of literature on the current preparedness of Australian paramedics. A description of the preparedness of Australian paramedics to manage IPV patients has the potential to inform curricula and practice development.MethodsWe surveyed a cohort of qualified Australian paramedics using the modified Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey.ResultsWe received 28 completed surveys (16.5% response rate), that revealed most respondents (89.3%) believed they had encountered IPV patients while working as a paramedic, yet only one participant reported comprehensive education or training on the management of such patients. Participants reported low knowledge and preparedness to manage IPV patients. Participant attitudes were poor for self-efficacy, confidence and preparation, and generally neutral for items regarding attitudes toward women and IPV patients.ConclusionsThis study adds to mounting evidence that paramedics frequently encounter IPV patients, have insufficient education and training, and are not prepared to manage such patients. While the results of this study should be interpreted with caution due to a low response rate and small sample, it appears that Australian paramedics would benefit from targeted educational packages that provide the necessary knowledge to recognise and refer patients, modify inappropriate or insufficient attitudes, and prepare paramedics to effectively manage IPV patients.
45
Williams, Brett, Andrys Onsman, and Ted Brown. "Is the Australian Paramedic Discipline a Full Profession?" Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 8, no. 1 (February 1, 2010). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.8.1.113.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction Over the past century the Australian paramedic discipline has changed dramatically; moving from its origins of an ambulance driver to its current practitioner role and integral member of the Australian health care system. However, at present the Australian paramedic discipline is not considered a full profession. The issue of whether the discipline currently believes it is a profession, and if it wants to achieve full professional status will be examined. This paper has two objectives - to examine if the Australian paramedic membership views the discipline as a profession, and if paramedic community wants to be considered a profession within Australia. Methods A convenience sample was used for this study that included participants who attended the inaugural National Association Paramedic Academics in September, 2008. An investigation of professionalisation attitudes were investigated using a paper-based self-report questionnaire. Results A total of 63 experts participated in the study. Forty (63.5%) of the participants were male and 23 (36.5%) were female, with 44% of the participants (n=28) being between 35-44 years of age. The majority of the participants reported that the paramedic discipline would benefit from being recognised as a full profession (M=4.62, SD=.771) within Australia and that the higher education sector has an important part to play in this process (4.49, SD=0.74). The majority felt that national registration would not occur within the next 2 years (M=2.52, SD=1.12). A significant difference (p=0.001) between participants from Victoria, New Zealand and Queensland about whether the paramedic discipline would achieve national registration produced was noted. Conclusion The findings from the survey suggest two points in relation to professionalism of the paramedic discipline within Australia. Firstly, the paramedic discipline is not a profession and secondly, the paramedic discipline wants to become recognised as a profession. Other professional factors such as national registration, autonomy and the development of a unique body of knowledge require further investigation.
46
Courtney-Pratt, Helen, Claire Eccleston, Peter Lucas, Laura Tierney, Wayne Harris, Briony Campbell, and Katherine Lawler. "Experience of paramedics providing care to people living with dementia." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 19 (May 2, 2022). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.19.929.
Full textAbstract:
Paramedics are key to the provision of emergency care in the community. Those living with dementia use paramedic services at a high rate, due to a range of issues related to comorbid conditions and other acute events which mean care cannot continue in the home. There is a paucity of literature related to care provided in such instances. Anecdotally, a perception exists that providing care to this group of people is challenging for paramedics in situations where high level assessment and emergency care are paramount. Paramedics in one Australian state were sought to participate in an exploratory study to enhance understanding of how they currently worked with people who lived in the community and had dementia. Sixteen participants were recruited to the study, and they worked in a number of areas, including urban and rural. Experience was broad, ranging from one to 36 years in the paramedic role. Inductive thematic analysis of interviews revealed key themes that framed the paramedic role and permeated interactions, assessment and decision-making. Paramedics participating in this study recognised people living with dementia who had high level impacts of the condition, suggesting those with less visible symptoms may remain hidden. With the projected increase of people diagnosed with dementia it is imperative that paramedics are aware of, and integrate dementia knowledge, skills and confidence into their practice. Deeper exploration of the area that includes volunteer ambulance personnel and further inquiry of the role of paramedics in relation to those living with dementia is needed. A focus on education and professional development to equip paramedics to work with people living with dementia is recommended. The findings suggest that greater work in this area is required.
47
Shaban, Ramon, Debra Creedy, and Michele Clark. "Paramedic knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and transmission in an Australian emergency medical system." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 1, no. 3 (October 6, 2003). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.1.3.209.
Full textAbstract:
Introduction Paramedics and other emergency health workers are exposed to infectious disease particularly when undertaking exposure-prone procedures as a component of their everyday practice. This study examined paramedic knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and transmission in the pre-hospital care environment. Methods A mail survey of paramedics from an Australian ambulance service (n=2274) was conducted. Results With a response rate of 55.3% (1258/2274), the study demonstrated that paramedic knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and modes of transmission was poor. Of the 25 infectious diseases included in the survey, only three aetiological agents were correctly identified by at least 80% of respondents. The most accurate responses for aetiology of individual infectious diseases were for HIV/AIDS (91.4%), influenza (87.4%), and hepatitis B (85.7%). Poorest results were observed for pertussis, infectious mononucleosis, leprosy, dengue fever, Japanese B encephalitis and vancomycin resistant enterococcus (VRE), all with less than half the sample providing a correct response. Modes of transmission of significant infectious diseases were also assessed. Most accurate responses were found for HIV/AIDS (85.8%), salmonella (81.9%) and influenza (80.1%). Poorest results were observed for infectious mononucleosis, diphtheria, shigella, Japanese B encephalitis, vancomycin resistant enterococcus, meningococcal meningitis, rubella and infectious mononucleosis, with less than a third of the sample providing a correct response. Conclusion Results suggest that knowledge of aetiology and transmission of infectious disease is generally poor amongst paramedics. A comprehensive in-service education infection control programs for paramedics with emphasis on infectious disease aetiology and transmission is recommended.
48
Eaton, Georgette, Geoff Wong, Stephanie Tierney, Nia Roberts, Veronika Williams, and Kamal R. Mahtani. "Understanding the role of the paramedic in primary care: a realist review." BMC Medicine 19, no. 1 (June 25, 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12916-021-02019-z.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract Background Since 2002, paramedics have been working in primary care within the United Kingdom (UK), a transition also mirrored within Australia, Canada and the USA. Recent recommendations to improve UK NHS workforce capacities have led to a major push to increase the numbers of paramedics recruited into primary care. However, gaps exist in the evidence base regarding how and why these changes would work, for whom, in what context and to what extent. To understand the ways in which paramedics impact (or not) the primary care workforce, we conducted a realist review. Methods A realist approach aims to provide causal explanations through the generation and articulation of contexts, mechanisms and outcomes. Our search of electronic databases was supplemented with Google and citation checking to locate grey literature including news items and workforce reports. Included documents were from the UK, Australia, Canada and the Americas—countries within which the paramedic role within primary care is well established. Results Our searches resulted in 205 included documents, from which data were extracted to produce context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs) within a final programme theory. Our results outline that paramedics are more likely to be effective in contributing to primary care workforces when they are supported to expand their existing role through formal education and clinical supervision. We also found that unless paramedics were fully integrated into primary care services, they did not experience the socialisation needed to build trusting relationships with patients or physicians. Indeed, for patients to accept paramedics in primary care, their role and its implications for their care should be outlined by a trusted source. Conclusions Our realist review highlights the complexity surrounding the introduction of paramedics into primary care roles. As well as offering an insight into understanding the paramedic professional identity, we also discuss the range of expectations this professional group will face in the transition to primary care. These expectations come from patients, general practitioners (family physicians) and paramedics themselves. This review is the first to offer insight into understanding the impact paramedics may have on the international primary care workforce and shaping how they might be optimally deployed.
49
Thompson, James, Hugh Grantham, and Don Houston. "Paramedic capstone education model: Building work ready graduates." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 12, no. 3 (August 2, 2015). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.12.3.15.
Full textAbstract:
SUMMARY In Australia, the last decade has witnessed considerable changes to both the scope of paramedic practice and the education of these practitioners. Notably within education, there has been a national trend to move from on-the-job training, towards a pre-employment, undergraduate university qualification. Despite increases in depth, breath and consistency to the curriculum and delivery by subject experts with training in education, criticism remains targeted at the preparation of the graduate for readiness to undertake the paramedic role. Australian undergraduate courses are currently experiencing unprecedented enrolment numbers, with complex student learning expectations and requirements. Producing work ready graduates within traditional curriculum frameworks is a challenge. Capstone courses target the final preparation of the graduating student, with a strong emphasis on articulating them successfully with their chosen industrial settings. While widely accepted in other disciplines, such as engineering, capstone is a new concept to paramedicine. This paper discusses how a capstone topic was created and implemented at Flinders University within the Bachelor of Paramedic Science degree. It describes the differentiated student learning methodology employed and the strategies used to respond to specific student and industry concerns regarding university teaching.
50
Reed, Buck, Leanne Cowin, Peter O'Meara, and Ian Wilson. "Professionalism and professionalisation in the discipline of paramedicine." Australasian Journal of Paramedicine 16 (October 21, 2019). http://dx.doi.org/10.33151/ajp.16.715.
Full textAbstract:
BackgroundProfessionalisation was cited as one of the key drivers for the recent addition of paramedics to the National Accreditation and Regulation Scheme (NRAS) making paramedics the fifteenth health profession in the NRAS. Self-regulation inherently shifts the basis of establishing professional identity and the formal authority for determining professional standards. This has increased discussion of professionalism in paramedicine, however, professionalisation and professionalism are often poorly defined concepts with a myriad of interpretations. MethodA scoping review was conducted to determine the available literature about professionalism and professionalisation in paramedicine. The review utilised 10 academic databases augmented with Google and Google Scholar to capture grey literature; 2740 results were refined to 53 sources for review.ResultsSeveral works on paramedic professionalisation explore elements such as autonomy and occupational characteristics. Others consider the process of professionalisation for United Kingdom (UK) and Australian paramedics. Education is discussed as a key factor in professionalism, while the increasing scope and diversity of roles in paramedicine is explored as indicative of professionalisation. Several UK papers relate professionalisation and culture to change processes within paramedicine and paramedic organisations. DiscussionAcademic work on professionalisation and professionalism in paramedicine appears sporadic and may benefit from explorations of a wider range of theories. Paramedicine has been described as constantly and rapidly developing around its practitioners rather than being a stable profession where practitioners enter with clear expectations of their ongoing identity. Further work is needed to understand the process of professionalisation that paramedicine is undergoing within its cultural and professional context.