ORCID Profile
0000-0001-6307-1779
Current Organisation
Monash University - Peninsula Campus
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2014
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S66681
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2021.101077
Abstract: Paramedicine is an evolving profession undergoing increases in scholarly activity and peer-reviewed publications. This study aims to complete the first extensive bibliometric examination of the worldwide paramedicine literature. Scopus was utilised to search for paramedicine-based articles published in peer-reviewed journals between 2010 and 2019 inclusive. The included articles were examined for citation count, journal, journal quartile, country of origin, university affiliation, collaboration, and topic. Paramedicine-based publications have steadily increased and are predominantly published in prehospital or emergency healthcare journals. The majority of highly cited authors were located in Australia however, only one of these authors was identified as a paramedic. Monash University (Australia) was the most productive institution (11.7% of total articles) and collaboration was mostly within national boundaries (53.2%). This study demonstrates the progressive increase in paramedic scholarly activity over the past decade. Although a large number of articles originate from two countries (Australia and the USA) and one university, numerous nations and institutions are contributing to this body of knowledge. The growing literature base is indicative of the evolution of paramedicine however, the high level of non-paramedic authors suggests the opportunity for further scholarly development within the paramedic discipline.
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 28-10-2015
DOI: 10.5430/JNEP.V6N2P35
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 13-04-2015
Abstract: – The key aspects that built environment professionals need to consider when evaluating roofs for the purpose of green roof retrofit and also when assessing green roofs for technical due diligence purposes are outlined. Although green or sod roofs have been built over many centuries, contemporary roofs adopt new approaches and technologies. The paper aims to discuss these issues. – A mixed methods design based on a systematic review of relevant literature from parallel disciplines was used to identify and quantify the social, economic and environmental benefits of retrofitted green roofs in commercial districts. The technical issues of concern were drawn from a desk-top survey of literature and from stakeholder focus groups undertaken in Sydney in 2012. – There are perceptions amongst built environmental practitioners that may act as artificial barriers to uptake. There is little direct experience within built environment professionals and practitioners, along with a fear of the unknown and a risk averse attitude towards perceived innovation which predicates against green roof retrofit. Furthermore projects with green roofs at inception and early design stage are often “value engineered” out of the design as time progresses. There is a need for best practice guidance notes for practitioners to follow when appraising roofs for retrofit and also for technical due diligence purposes. – The focus groups are limited to Sydney-based practitioners. Although many of these practitioners have international experience, few had experience of green roofs. A limited number of roof typologies were considered in this research and some regions and countries may adopt different construction practices. – In central business districts the installation of green roof technology is seen as one of the main contributors to water sensitive urban design (WSUD). It is likely that more green roofs will be constructed over time and practitioners need knowledge of the technology as well as the ability to provide best advice to clients. – The benefits of green roofs as part of WSUD are increasingly being recognised in terms of reduced flood risk, reduced cost of drainage, improved water quality and lower energy use, as well as other less tangible aspects such as aesthetics and amenity. This research highlights the lack of understanding of the short- and long-term benefits, a poor appreciation and awareness of these benefits a lack of technical knowledge and issues to be considered with regard to green roofs on behalf of practitioners. The study has highlighted the need for specific training and up-skilling in these areas to provide surveyors with the technical expertise needed. There is also a need to consider how the emerging retrofit and adaptation themes are best designed into the curriculum at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Clearly, if the potential benefits of green roofs are to be realised in the future, building professionals need to be fully conversant with the technology and be able to provide reliable and accurate advice.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.2147/PRBM.S145810
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-12-2020
DOI: 10.1007/S10459-019-09946-W
Abstract: Competency frameworks serve various roles including outlining characteristics of a competent workforce, facilitating mobility, and analysing or assessing expertise. Given these roles and their relevance in the health professions, we sought to understand the methods and strategies used in the development of existing competency frameworks. We applied the Arksey and O'Malley framework to undertake this scoping review. We searched six electronic databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Scopus, and ERIC) and three grey literature sources (greylit.org, Trove and Google Scholar) using keywords related to competency frameworks. We screened studies for inclusion by title and abstract, and we included studies of any type that described the development of a competency framework in a healthcare profession. Two reviewers independently extracted data including study characteristics. Data synthesis was both quantitative and qualitative. Among 5710 citations, we selected 190 for analysis. The majority of studies were conducted in medicine and nursing professions. Literature reviews and group techniques were conducted in 116 studies each (61%), and 85 (45%) outlined some form of stakeholder deliberation. We observed a significant degree of ersity in methodological strategies, inconsistent adherence to existing guidance on the selection of methods, who was involved, and based on the variation we observed in timeframes, combination, function, application and reporting of methods and strategies, there is no apparent gold standard or standardised approach to competency framework development. We observed significant variation within the conduct and reporting of the competency framework development process. While some variation can be expected given the differences across and within professions, our results suggest there is some difficulty in determining whether methods were fit-for-purpose, and therefore in making determinations regarding the appropriateness of the development process. This uncertainty may unwillingly create and legitimise uncertain or artificial outcomes. There is a need for improved guidance in the process for developing and reporting competency frameworks.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 02-04-2015
DOI: 10.12968/IPPR.2015.5.1.22
Abstract: Peer-assisted teaching and learning continues to grow internationally as a useful pedagogical strategy in health professional education. Paramedics are continually engaged in teaching students, other health professionals, patients and their families—so experience teaching peers during their university education may increase their confidence when teaching as a paramedic. This project aims to explore: i) third-year students’ experiences of teaching and assessing junior students, and ii) first-year students’ experiences of being taught and assessed by senior students. A quasi-experimental design was used to investigate peer-assisted teaching and learning among paramedic first and third-years at Monash University using the Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire and the Clinical Teaching Preference Questionnaire. Both self-reporting measures used a 5-point Likert scale. A total of 154 students participated in the study: n=127 first-years (n=87 control group, n=40 intervention group), and n=27 third-years (n=8 control group and n=19 intervention group). The majority of students were years of age, n=130 (84%) and female n=100 (63%). Ninety-four percent (n=120) first-year students felt (strongly agree or agree) ‘teaching is an important role for paramedics’. Almost two-thirds n=82 (64%) felt (strongly agree or agree) ‘being taught by peers increased their collaboration with other students compared with their instructor’. Preliminary results support the utility of peer-assisted teaching and learning in undergraduate paramedic education, and suggest that larger scale studies take place in the future. Consideration should be given for inclusion into existing paramedic curricula nationally.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2015.08.002
Abstract: To explore the potential of mobile eye-tracking to identify healthcare students' area of visual interest and its relationship to performance ratings. Eye-tracking identifies an in idual's visual attention focus, and has been used as a training technique in medicine and in nursing. In this study participants wore a point of view (PoV) camera within a spectacle frame during simulation education experiences. Thirty-nine final year nursing and paramedicine students in idually participated in three 8 minute clinical simulations with debriefing using videoed eye-tracking recordings. Coloured dots on the video depicted the participant's pupil fixation on five targeted areas. Data extracted from the video camera were collated to report time spent on each target (their 'gaze'). The mean total gaze of expert designated targets in the environment for three 8 minute scenarios was 40-77%. Of 35 participants' focus on three main areas of interest, their priority was the patient's head (34%), the patient's trunk (24%) and their clinical assistant (5%), with significant differences between nursing and paramedic disciplines (P < 0.05). Objectively rated clinical performance improved significantly by the third scenario (P ≤ 0.001). Participants were positive regarding use of eye tracking during debriefing. Eye tracking has the potential to enhance debriefing and educational outcomes, although there are limitations to gaze capture in high fidelity environments and resource cost is high. Further study is warranted to enable better understanding of how expert clinicians achieve high levels of performance.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESUSCITATION.2019.08.036
Abstract: Little is known about the long-term trends in the incidence and outcomes of drug overdose out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). Between 2000 and 2017, we retrospectively reviewed drug overdose OHCAs from the Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry. Incidence was assessed using linear regression, and the baseline characteristics and survival outcomes were assessed using nonparametric test for trend. Arrest factors associated with survival to hospital discharge were assessed using logistic regression. The 12-month functional recovery and health related quality of life for survivors was summarised using descriptive statistics. The incidence of emergency medical services (EMS)-attended and EMS-treated cases was 5.8 and 2.0 per 100,000 person-years, respectively, with no significant changes in trend over time. Return of spontaneous circulation increased from 23% to 34% (p for trend = 0.001), event survival increased from 23% to 30% (p for trend = 0.007), and survival to hospital discharge increased from 4% to 13% (p for trend = 0.03). Age, arrest witnessed by bystander or EMS, initial shockable rhythm or pulseless electrical activity, intubation, epinephrine and sodium bicarbonate administration were independently associated with survival. The adjusted-temporal trend for survival was not significant (per year increase OR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.98, 1.07 p = 0.244). Of the 12-month survivors, 50% of the responders reported good functional recovery, and few reported severe problems with mobility, self-care, daily activity, pain, and anxiety/depression. Although the incidence of drug overdose OHCA remained unchanged between 2000 and 2017, the rates of survival have significantly improved.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-04-2023
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 21-05-2014
DOI: 10.12968/IPPR.2014.4.1.13
Abstract: Background: Despite proactive steps towards professionalism, the Australian out-of-hospital emergency care sector has not been formally recognised as a healthcare profession among other healthcare professions and Government bodies. The objective of this study was to examine community perceptions of the ‘professional’ status of the paramedic discipline and explore which attributes community members perceive as being most desirable for paramedics. Methods: Two structured focus groups were conducted with volunteer community members (n=10) from regional and metropolitan Victoria, Australia. Participants were asked a range of questions, including what title they used in describing paramedics, whether they considered the paramedic a professional, and what they perceived the desirable paramedic attributes were. Thematic analysis and incidence density qualitative data analysis methods were used to examine the responses. Results: The results suggest that the paramedic discipline is perceived as a ‘profession’ by the general community. Participants consistently reported the following attributes as most desirable for paramedics: high levels of skills, caring, empathetic, non-judgemental, culturally sensitive, quick thinkers, inclusive (including family members) trustworthy, honest, good communicators, highly educated, maintain confidentiality, physical fitness and being well groomed. Interestingly, community members used a variety of titles in referring to paramedics, these included: ‘ambulance drivers’, ‘ambulance officers, ‘ambos’, and ‘paramedics’, although it was clear that the term paramedic confused many participants. Conclusions: The general community recognises paramedics as professionals. Interestingly, the term paramedic is still not synonymous among community members, suggesting further lobbying and role clarification is required. The public perceptions of the paramedic role and the desirable attributes of a paramedic provide important information and an extra dimension regarding curriculum development, core competencies, and establishment of standardised curricula.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-01-2015
DOI: 10.1111/TCT.12226
Abstract: Negative attitudes adversely impact on patient care and outcomes. Given the aging population in Australia, it is inevitable that paramedic attendance to this demographic of patients will also rise. It is therefore imperative that undergraduate paramedic attitudes towards elderly patients are investigated, along with pedagogical approaches to maintain or enhance them. Eleven second-year paramedic students enrolled in Monash University's Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) degree, came together with 11 independently living elderly residents from Patterson Lakes Village and participated in an engagement activity. The Aging Semantic Differential (ASD) survey and focus groups were used to analyse the students' attitudes towards the elderly, before and after the activity. Students showed improved attitudes toward the elderly across two of the three ASD dimensions. Focus group discussions suggested that students found the elderly participants to be more independent and capable than they had first thought, but were unchanged on their attitude with regard to elderly people being inflexible. Students were presented with an opportunity to actively engage with independently living elderly patients. This experience challenged their preconceived ideas about the elderly and their capabilities, and at a minimum increased awareness, which will assist future paramedics in their interactions and care of these patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2016.08.005
Abstract: A student's accuracy on drug calculation tests may be influenced by maths anxiety, which can impede one's ability to understand and complete mathematic problems. It is important for healthcare students to overcome this barrier when calculating drug dosages in order to avoid administering the incorrect dose to a patient when in the clinical setting. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of maths anxiety on healthcare students' ability to accurately calculate drug dosages by performing a scoping review of the existing literature. This review utilised a six-stage methodology using the following databases CINAHL, Embase, Medline, Scopus, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, Trip database (www.tripdatabase.com/) and Grey Literature report (www.greylit.org/). After an initial title/abstract review of relevant papers, and then full text review of the remaining papers, six articles were selected for inclusion in this study. Of the six articles included, there were three experimental studies, two quantitative studies and one mixed method study. All studies addressed nursing students and the presence of maths anxiety. No relevant studies from other disciplines were identified in the existing literature. Three studies took place in the U.S, the remainder in Canada, Australia and United Kingdom. Upon analysis of these studies, four factors including maths anxiety were identified as having an influence on a student's drug dosage calculation abilities. Ultimately, the results from this review suggest more research is required in nursing and other relevant healthcare disciplines regarding the effects of maths anxiety on drug dosage calculations. This additional knowledge will be important to further inform development of strategies to decrease the potentially serious effects of errors in drug dosage calculation to patient safety.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 23-10-2017
DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2017.1381077
Abstract: Interprofessional education (IPE) is widely accepted worldwide, as a key part of training for health professionals and critical to an effective, patient-centred healthcare system. Several tools have been developed to evaluate IPE programmes and interventions globally. Many of the widely-used tools have been successfully adapted to suit specific cohorts and different languages the Interdisciplinary Education Perception Scale (IEPS), however, has not yet been translated and validated for use in Sweden. The aim of this study was to translate the IEPS into Swedish and validate the psychometric properties of this new version. The 12-item IEPS underwent translation into Swedish and back-translation into English by suitable independent translators to ensure items retained their meaning. The new Swedish version was completed by 164 medical and nursing, occupational therapy and physiotherapy students on clinical placements in Stockholm. Principal Axis Factoring (PAF) and Oblique Oblimin Rotation confirmed a three-factor structure, that explained 77.4% of variance. The new 10-item Swedish version IEPS displayed good internal consistency with an overall Cronbach's alpha of a = .88 and subscale values of .89, .88 and .66. The exclusion of two-items limits the transferability of this scale however, the factor makeup was very similar to the original 12-item English version. It is suspected that minor differences were due to unavoidable deviations in meaning following translation (i.e. certain English words have no equivalent in Swedish). Nevertheless, the results imply that the Swedish version of the IEPS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing students' perceptions and attitudes towards IPE within the Swedish health education system.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-05-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-12-2021
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12795
Abstract: Empathy is an important characteristic for healthcare students and professionals that may improve the quality of healthcare interactions. Empathy has predominantly been studied within medicine, but also among various allied health personnel. Within paramedicine, empathy has previously been examined internationally, but not within Japan. This study used a descriptive, cross‐sectional methodology which aimed to examine self‐reported empathy in Japanese paramedic students using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy, and compare results with similar international cohorts. Empathy levels in the Japanese cohort were higher among females compared to males. In addition, there was a decrease in empathy with each subsequent year of the paramedic program, and a general decrease as age increased. This contrasts with comparable Australian cohorts which demonstrate no significant change in empathy levels during the undergraduate program. Empathy levels measured in the Japanese paramedic cohort were generally lower than for Australian cohorts. The reasons for the differences are unclear at present and thus further research in this area is required to fully determine and describe the contributing factors.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-04-2008
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-05-2014
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.11.3.16
Abstract: IntroductionIt is well known that Australia has an aging population and that the elderly are disproportionately overrepresented in the patients seen by ambulance paramedics. While research to date has primarily focussed on the attitudes towards the elderly held by nursing and medical students, there is a current paucity of research about the perspective of paramedic students. The objective of this study was to identify the attitudes of paramedic students from a large Australian university towards the elderly.MethodsIn 2013, second year paramedic students from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study and record their attitudes towards the elderly (age ) using the Aging Semantic Differential (ASD) questionnaire. The ASD utilises a 7 point bipolar Likert scale questionnaire consisting of 32 items and three subscales: Instrument—Ineffective Autonomous—Dependent Personal Acceptability—Unacceptability.ResultsFifty six second year paramedic students participated in the study. The participants were predominantly years of age n=48 (85.7%) and female n=36 (64.3%). Subscale results produced the following mean scores: Instrument—Ineffective (mean=35.05, SD=5.01) Autonomous—Dependent (mean=34.25, SD=4.26) Personal Acceptability—Unacceptability (mean=49.47, SD=6.44).ConclusionThese results suggest that while student paramedics possess a healthy respect for the elderly, they also harbour some preconceived negative ideas about them. Ultimately, these attitudes may impact on a paramedic’s interaction with, and management of the elderly patient, which raises questions about whether students are being adequately prepared for clinical practice.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-12-2020
Abstract: Partner abuse is a significant contributor to mortality and morbidity worldwide, and has been identified as a priority health care issue. Most health care students rarely receive education on partner abuse and report not feeling ready to encounter patients experiencing partner abuse. Analysis of the current readiness of health care students and can inform educational needs to address this gap. The READIness to encounter partner abuse patients Scale was delivered to a convenience s le of Australian prequalification health care students. Participant demographics and estimated hours of education were also reported. Mean readiness scores were calculated by discipline. The relationship between hours of education and readiness scores was calculated using linear regression. A total of 926 participants were included in the analysis. Approximately half of the participants (47.5%) reported less than two hours of education. Mean readiness of students was 4.99 out of 7 ( SD 0.73, range 4.39–5.95). Linear regression revealed a significant association between hours of education and readiness, r(925) = .497, p .000. Australian health care students receive little education about partner abuse, and do not report feeling ready to encounter patients experiencing partner abuse. An in idual’s confidence and belief in their abilities appear to be the key factor influencing overall readiness. Participants indicated a strong belief that responding to partner abuse was part of their professional role, which is a positive change from previous research. Higher hours of education is associated with higher readiness, though which educational methodologies are most impactful remains unclear.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X00007937
Abstract: 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. 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 PowerPoint TM presentation for 15 seconds, followed by a short pause, with the next patient image commencing automatically. 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. 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.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2010.06.006
Abstract: Few empirical studies have been undertaken on the communication styles of specific health-related disciplines. The objective of this study is to identify the communication styles of undergraduate health students at an Australian university. A cross-sectional study using a paper-based version of the Communicator Style Measure (CSM) was administered to a cohort of students enrolled in eight different undergraduate health-related courses. There were 1459 health students eligible for inclusion in the study. 860 students (response rate of 59%) participated in the study. Participants overall preferred the Friendly and Attentive communicator styles and gave least preference to the Contentious and Dominant styles. There was considerable similarity between participants from each of the health-related courses. There was no statistical difference in relation to communicator styles between the age of the participant or the year level they were enrolled in. These results show a preference for communicator styles which are facilitative of a client-centred approach, empathetic, and positive with interpersonal relationships. The lack of significant difference in communicator styles by year level further suggests that people disposed to such communicator styles are drawn to these health-related courses, rather than the specific field of study affecting their style.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-2011
DOI: 10.4276/030802211X13125646370933
Abstract: Listening and communication are two critical aspects of positive relationships. In the context of health care, they have been found to have a positive impact on many aspects of client care, including patient satisfaction, emotional wellbeing, and functional and physiological status. However, little is understood about the specific listening and communication styles exhibited by students enrolled in the health-related disciplines, including occupational therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the listening and communication styles of undergraduate occupational therapy students. This was a cross-sectional study of 210 students (response rate of 95.5%) enrolled in a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT) course, who completed paper-based versions of the Listening Styles Profile (LSP) and the Communicator Style Measure (CSM). Both the LSP and CSM are valid and reliable measures. Participants reported a strong preference for the People listening style and the Friendly and Attentive communication styles. A moderate preference was also shown for the Content listening style. There were only two minor differences between participants enrolled in the different year levels of the BOT course, and only minor differences between the male and female students. The participants' reported preferences are well suited for the role of occupational therapy. The findings suggest that occupational therapy students exhibit a disposition towards listening and communication styles that are indicative of an underlying interest in the care and welfare of others and which are traits of the ‘helping, people-oriented’ professions. The implications of these findings are that it is important to consider the listening and communication styles of occupational therapy students during their professional education and while completing practice placement education.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.2147/JHL.S96592
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 13-05-2021
Abstract: High prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases in Indigenous populations is a major public health concern both in global and Australian contexts. Limited research has examined the role of built environments in relation to Indigenous health in remote Australia. This study engaged stakeholders to understand their perceptions of the influence of built environmental factors on chronic and infectious diseases in remote Northern Territory (NT) communities. A preliminary set of 1120 built environmental indicators were systematically identified and classified using an Indigenous Indicator Classification System. The public and environmental health workforce was engaged to consolidate the classified indicators (n = 84), and then sort and rate the consolidated indicators based on their experience with living and working in remote NT communities. Sorting of the indicators resulted in a concept map with nine built environmental domains. Essential services and Facilities for health/safety were the highest ranked domains for both chronic and infectious diseases. Within these domains, adequate housing infrastructure, water supply, drainage system, reliable sewerage and power infrastructure, and access to health services were identified as the most important contributors to the development of these diseases. The findings highlight the features of community environments amenable to public health and social policy actions that could be targeted to help reduce prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 27-06-2022
Abstract: Recent crises have underscored the importance that housing has in sustaining good health and, equally, its potential to harm health. Considering this and building on Howden-Chapman’s early glossary of housing and health and the WHO Housing and Health Guidelines, this paper introduces a range of housing and health-related terms, reflecting almost 20 years of development in the field. It defines key concepts currently used in research, policy and practice to describe housing in relation to health and health inequalities. Definitions are organised by three overarching aspects of housing: affordability (including housing affordability stress (HAS) and fuel poverty), suitability (including condition, accessibility and sustainable housing) and security (including precarious housing and homelessness). Each of these inter-related aspects of housing can be either protective of, or detrimental to, health. This glossary broadens our understanding of the relationship between housing and health to further promote interdisciplinarity and strengthen the nexus between these fields.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 19-04-2018
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) has a major impact on the health and well-being of women. The need for a coordinated response from health care professions encountering IPV patients is well established, and guidelines for in idual health care professions are needed. Paramedics are believed to frequently encounter IPV patients, and this study aims to create a guideline to direct their response based on expert opinion. A clinical guideline for paramedics was created using current evidence and recommendations from health agencies. A panel of family violence researchers and service delivery experts such as physicians, family violence support agencies, and police commented on the guideline via a Policy Delphi Method to obtain consensus agreement. A total of 42 experts provided feedback over three rounds resulting in 100% consensus. Results include clinical indicators to recognize IPV patients in the prehospital environment, a description of how paramedics should discuss IPV with patients, recommended referral agencies and pathways, and appropriate documentation of case findings. This study has created the first comprehensive, consensus-based guideline for paramedics to recognize and refer IPV patients to care and support. The guideline could potentially be modified for use by ambulance services worldwide and can be used as the basis for building the capacity of paramedics to respond to IPV, which may lead to increased referrals to care and support.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 25-07-2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.717
Abstract: BackgroundIn December 2018 Australian paramedics and the paramedicine discipline became nationally registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Paramedics are now required to register and satisfy registration requirements in order to work as a paramedic. One of the mandatory registration standards is continuing professional development (CPD). This study examines attitudes and perceptions held by Australian paramedics in relation to CPD. MethodsA qualitative research project was undertaken using semi-structured interviews. A purposive snowballing s ling technique was employed to invite paramedics currently working in Australia to participate in telephone-based interviews. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. The transcripts were read several times to determine repeated themes and these themes were then coded by two authors. Data saturation was considered to have occurred after 18 interviews. ResultsEighteen paramedics responded and were interviewed 16 of the respondents were male with the majority coming from Victoria. Broadly, four key themes were identified from analysis of the interviews. These included: 1) identification of CPD activities and requirements, 2) motivation, 3) factors influencing choice of activity, and 4) barriers.ConclusionThere was general acceptance of the need for paramedics to stay up-to-date with current practice. Generally, this was seen as a responsibility of the employer but some in iduals made the distinction between employment requirements and professional requirements. We would encourage ongoing research in this area particularly as CPD develops over time for paramedicine in Australia.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 29-01-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X1300006X
Abstract: Paramedics 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. This was a cross-sectional study using a convenience s le 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). A 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). The 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. Williams B , Boyle M , Earl T . Measurement of empathy levels in undergraduate paramedic students . Prehosp Disaster Med . 2013 28 ( 2 ): 1 - 5 .
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2019-031725
Abstract: To explore the level of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge among allied health professions (AHPs) students and its associated factors. This is a cross-sectional study assessing CPR knowledge among AHP students. A multidisciplinary expert panel designed a survey, which then was piloted to 20 potential participants. The survey had two sections, including demographics and knowledge questions. Knowledge questions scores ranged from 0 to 10, where 10 indicates all questions were answered correctly. A total of 883 students completed the surveys and were included in the study. The mean age was 21 years (±1.6) and the majority were females (73.1%). A total of 693 (78.5%) students did not receive previous CPR training and the top barriers to receiving CPR training were unawareness of training opportunities and a lack of time. Participants had a mean CPR knowledge score of 3.9 (±1.7) out of 10 maximum potential points. Trained participants had a higher mean score compared with the untrained (4.6 (±1.6) vs 3.8 (±1.6), p .001). Previous training (adjusted β=0.6 95% CI 0.2 to 0.9 p .001) and being in the physical therapy programme (adjusted β=0.5 95% CI 0.1 to 0.8 p=0.01) were associated with higher knowledge. There is poor knowledge of CPR among AHP students including trained in iduals. Efforts to increase the awareness of CPR should target students and professionals who are highly likely to encounter patients requiring CPR. Compulsory training courses, shorter training periods as well as recurrent and regular refreshing courses and use of various media devices are recommended.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 13-04-2013
DOI: 10.1136/EMERMED-2011-200929
Abstract: The objective of this study was to determine if undergraduate paramedics could accurately perform common drug calculations and basic mathematical computations normally required in the workplace. A descriptive paper-based questionnaire collecting demographical data, student attitudes regarding their drug calculation performance, and answers to a series of basic mathematical and drug calculation questions was administered to undergraduate paramedic students. The mean score was 39.5% with only 3.3% of students (n=3) scoring greater than 90%, and 63% (n=58) scoring 50% or less. Conceptual errors made up 48.5%, arithmetical 31.1% and computational 17.4%. This study suggests undergraduate paramedics have deficiencies in performing accurate calculations with conceptual errors indicating a fundamental lack of mathematical understanding.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2012.10.015
Abstract: Healthcare systems are continuing searching for alternative service delivery models while at the same time also promoting interprofessional practice and cooperation among workers. One scale that aims to measure interprofessional cooperation is the Interdisciplinary Education Perception Scale (IEPS), although limited psychometric testing on its validity and reliability has been carried out. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate the dimensionality and internal consistency of the IEPS (suggested by McFadyen and colleagues) when completed by a group of paramedic undergraduates. Data from the IEPS were analysed with a factor analysis using a Principal Axis Factoring (PAF) with Oblique Oblimin rotation. A total of (n=303) undergraduate paramedic students participated in the study who reported having positive attitudes towards interprofessional cooperation. Factor analysis of the 12-items revealed two factors with eigenvalues above 1, accounting for 53.85% of the total variance. Items with loadings greater than ±.30, with the factor in question were used to describe the two factors: Cooperation and Teamwork, and Positivity. While data from this study produced a multi-dimensional scale with adequate eigenvalues and communalities, improvements to the scales internal consistency can be made with future data sets. The results from the IEPS suggest that undergraduate paramedics have positive regard towards interprofessional cooperation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.AENJ.2015.12.001
Abstract: All nurses must have core competencies in preparing for, responding to and recovering from a disaster. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), as in many other countries, disaster nursing core competencies are not fully understood and lack reliable, validated tools. Thus, it is imperative to develop a scale for exploring disaster nursing core competencies, roles and barriers in the KSA. This study's objective is to develop a valid, reliable scale that identifies and explores core competencies of disaster nursing, nurses' roles in disaster management and barriers to developing disaster nursing in the KSA. This study developed a new scale testing its validity and reliability. A principal component analysis (PCA) was used to develop and test psychometric properties of the new scale. The PCA used a purposive s le of nurses from emergency departments in two hospitals in the KSA. Participants rated 93 paper-based, self-report questionnaire items from 1 to 10 on a Likert scale. PCA using Varimax rotation was conducted to explore factors emerging from responses. The study's participants were 132 nurses (66% response rate). PCA of the 93 questionnaire items revealed 49 redundant items (which were deleted) and 3 factors with eigenvalues of >1. The remaining 44 items accounted for 77.3% of the total variance. The overall Cronbach's alpha was 0.96 for all factors: 0.98 for Factor 1, 0.92 for Factor 2 and 0.86 for Factor 3. This study provided a validated, reliable scale for exploring nurses' core competencies, nurses' roles and barriers to developing disaster nursing in the KSA. The new scale has many implications, such as for improving education, planning and curricula.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 06-01-2021
DOI: 10.1108/IJES-05-2020-0027
Abstract: In the past several decades, there has been rapid advancement and improvement in Australasian paramedicine education and clinical standards. These advancements have also seen improvements in the professionalism of Australasian paramedicine. Therefore, having a valid and reliable paramedicine professionalism measure is important. This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the modified Professionalism at Work Questionnaire (PWQ) with Australasian paramedicine students Data from the PWQ were analysed using a principal component analysis (PCA) followed by orthogonal varimax rotation. A total of 479 paramedicine students from three Australasian universities completed the modified PWQ. PCA of the 72-items revealed 11 factors with eigenvalues above 1.5, accounting for 50.99% of the total variance. A total of 64 items were found with loadings greater than 0.40 and were used to describe the 11 factors: Professional attitude and behaviour, communication with others, professional identity, professional development, appearance and flexibility, organisational support, comparable professional status, pride in occupation, adherence to rules, responsibility in the workforce and concerns about appropriate use of resources. Results from this study suggest that the modified 64-item PWQ can be used to measure professionalism in Australasian paramedicine student cohorts. The instrument encompassed many and varied aspects of the attributes and features that have been described as being essential to being a profession. The instrument provides an important measurement tool for the paramedicine profession. Results from this study suggest that the modified 64-item PWQ can be used to measure professionalism in Australasian paramedicine student cohorts. The instrument encompassed many and varied aspects of the attributes and features that have been described as being essential to being a profession. The instrument provides a critical measurement tool for the paramedicine profession.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.HKJOT.2014.04.002
Abstract: Occupational therapy graduates are expected to assume leadership roles in a variety of contexts and capacities. To investigate the leadership styles of undergraduate occupational therapy students. First, second, third, and fourth year undergraduate occupational therapy students from one Australian university were asked to complete the What's My Leadership Style (WMLS) questionnaire. The total s le response rate was 86.3% (n = 182/211). Overall there was a statistically significant difference in students’ preference for the leadership styles (p .001). The two most preferred leadership styles were the Considerate and Spirited styles while the two least preferred were the Direct and Systematic leadership styles. There were no statistically significant differences in preference for any of the four leadership styles based on students’ sex, age, or year level of study. The Considerate leadership style is characterised by creating comfortable working environments, following established procedures, and creating an easy work pace, while the Spirited leadership style is about inspiring people, generating excitement, turning work into play, and rallying people. It is recommended that leadership be integrated into occupational therapy curricula so as to adequately equip students for future professional practice.
Publisher: No publisher found
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2007
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-03-2020
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12699
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2015.03.008
Abstract: Peer-assisted learning (PAL) as an educational philosophy benefits both the peer-teacher and peer-learner. The changing role of paramedicine towards autonomous and professional practice demands future paramedics to be effective educators. Yet PAL is not formally integrated in undergraduate paramedic programs. We aimed to examine the effects of an educational intervention on students' PAL experiences as peer-teachers. Two one-hour workshops were provided prior to PAL teaching sessions including small group activities, in idual reflections, role-plays and material notes. Peer-teachers completed the Teaching Style Survey, which uses a five-point Likert scale to measure participants' perceptions and confidence before and after PAL involvement. Thirty-eight students were involved in an average of 3.7 PAL sessions. The cohort was predominated by males (68.4%) aged ≤ 25 (73.7%). Following PAL, students reported feeling more confident in facilitating tutorial groups (p = 0.02). After the PAL project peer-teachers were also more likely to set high standards for their learners (p = 0.009). This PAL project yielded important information for the continual development of paramedic education. Although PAL increases students' confidence, the full role of PAL in education remains unexplored. The role of the university in this must also be clearly clarified.
Publisher: Hamad bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press)
Date: 19-11-2020
Abstract: Trauma is a major public health problem in Saudi Arabia and a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in young age groups. In 2018, traumatic injuries caused by road traffic accidents were the leading cause of death after ischemic heart diseases. Therefore, a new road safety system is important to reduce the incidence of road accident trauma. First aid care by bystanders to road accidents must be improved to become an effective part of pre-hospital care and avoid aggravation. Moreover, trauma centers need further training and education to provide a high level of trauma care. However, literature about trauma care in Saudi Arabia is lacking. Thus, this paper aims to provide an overview of the Saudi trauma system, emergency medical services, and healthcare providers’ training and education efforts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2010.11.013
Abstract: Practical hands-on learning opportunities are viewed as a vital component of the education of health science students, but there is a critical shortage of fieldwork placement experiences. It is therefore important that these clinical learning environments are well suited to students' perceptions and expectations. To investigate how undergraduate students enrolled in health-related education programs view their clinical learning environments and specifically to compare students' perception of their 'actual' clinical learning environment to that of their 'preferred/ideal' clinical learning environment. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory (CLEI) was used to collect data from 548 undergraduate students (55% response rate) enrolled in all year levels of paramedics, midwifery, radiography and medical imaging, occupational therapy, pharmacy, nutrition and dietetics, physiotherapy and social work at Monash University via convenience s ling. Students were asked to rate their perception of the clinical learning environment at the completion of their placements using the CLEI. Satisfaction of the students enrolled in the health-related disciplines was closely linked with the five constructs measured by the CLEI: Personalization, Student Involvement, Task Orientation, Innovation, and In idualization. Significant differences were found between the student's perception of their 'actual' clinical learning environment and their 'ideal' clinical learning environment. The study highlights the importance of a supportive clinical learning environment that places emphasis on effective two-way communication. A thorough understanding of students' perceptions of their clinical learning environments is essential.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-08-2017
DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2017.1332125
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) refers to abuse transpiring between people in an intimate relationship. Intimate partner violence is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality for women that paramedics frequently report encountering and yet paramedics rarely receive formal education or training to manage. The response of paramedics to IPV is likely to be directed by their in idual knowledge, attitudes, and preparedness all of which are currently unknown. This study aimed to measure paramedic students' knowledge, attitudes, and preparedness to manage IPV patients, and provides baseline data to inform the development of contemporary curricula. We surveyed a cohort of paramedic students from two Australian universities using the Modified Physician REadiness to Manage Intimate partner violence Survey (PREMIS). Internal consistency of previously identified scales was calculated and multiple linear regression was used to measure the association between previous training, knowledge, attitudes, and preparation. We received 260 surveys (80.5% response rate). Results show that actual knowledge, perceived knowledge, and preparedness to manage IPV patients were low. Students with previous training reported higher perceived knowledge (p <.05) and preparedness (p <.01). Participants reported low self-efficacy, confidence, and preparation to manage IPV patients and demonstrated mostly neutral attitudes toward women and patients. Results indicate students require increased IPV education. Education should improve knowledge and preparedness to recognize and refer IPV patients, as well as change neutral and inappropriate attitudes. Incorporating such education and training into the paramedic curricula may improve the preparedness of practitioners, resulting in an improved response to IPV patients.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 31-10-2022
DOI: 10.1177/09697330221130607
Abstract: 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. 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. 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. 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.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2014.11.012
Abstract: The responsibility to implement evidence-based practice (EBP) in a health care workplace does not fall solely on the in idual health care professional. Organisational barriers relate to the workplace setting, administrational support, infrastructure, and facilities available for the retrieval, critique, summation, utilisation, and integration of research findings in health care practices and settings. Using a scoping review approach, the organisational barriers to the implementation of EBP in health care settings were sought. This scoping review used the first five of the six stage methodology developed by Levac et al. (2010). The five stages used are: 1) Identify the research question 2) identify relevant studies 3) study selection 4) charting the data and 5) collating, summarising and reporting the results. The following databases were searched from January 2004 until February 2014: Medline, EMBASE, EBM Reviews, Google Scholar, The Cochrane Library and CINAHL. Of the 49 articles included in this study, there were 29 cross-sectional surveys, six descriptions of specific interventions, seven literature reviews, four narrative reviews, nine qualitative studies, one ethnographic study and one systematic review. The articles were analysed and five broad organisational barriers were identified. This scoping review sought to map the breadth of information available on the organisational barriers to the use of EBP in health care settings. Even for a health care professional who is motivated and competent in the use of EBP all of these barriers will impact on their ability to increase and maintain their use of EBP in the workplace.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 19-10-2012
DOI: 10.1108/20470891211275902
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent of empathy in paramedic students across seven Australian universities. A cross‐sectional study was carried out using a paper‐based questionnaire employing a convenience s le of first, second, and third year undergraduate paramedic students. Student empathy levels were measured using a standardised self‐reporting instrument: the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy‐Health Profession Students (JSPE‐HPS). A total of 783 students participated in the study, of which 57 per cent were females. The overall JSPE‐HPS mean score was 106.74 (SD=14.8). Females had greater mean empathy scores than males 108.69 v 103.58 ( p= 0.042). First year undergraduate paramedic mean empathy levels were the lowest, 106.29 (SD=15.40) with second year's the highest at 107.17 (SD=14.90). The overall findings provide a framework for educators to begin constructing guidelines focusing on the need to incorporate, promote and instil empathy into paramedic students in order to better prepare them for future out‐of‐hospital healthcare practice.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-09-2015
DOI: 10.1136/BMJSTEL-2015-000033
Abstract: The importance of access to early defibrillation for patients in cardiac arrest has been emphasised as a critical part of the chain of survival by resuscitation bodies internationally as such defibrillation has become a key procedure for many out-of-hospital emergency healthcare providers. However, little research has been undertaken specifically addressing students’ safety during defibrillation procedures. The objective of this study was to examine visual and verbal safety checks prior to defibrillation utilising eye-tracking technology. This was an observational study of student safety during cardiac rhythm analysis, defibrillator charging and immediately prior to defibrillation during a resuscitation attempt using a medium fidelity mannequin. The participants completed two 10 min simulations each requiring three defibrillation attempts. The κ statistic was used to determine the agreement by the student of their perceived safety performance and that viewed in the video. In both scenarios the student's level of agreement for their perceived defibrillation safety performance and what was observed in the video decreased from defibrillation one to three in both scenarios. However, there was agreement in their overall defibrillation safety performance for both scenarios. Student perceptions of their actions during defibrillation are not always an accurate representation of their actual actions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-05-2015
Abstract: Violence against women is pervasive worldwide, and a high proportion of the most damaging violence is perpetrated by male intimate partners. The Australian government is committed to action to prevent such violence however, strategies require input and collaboration from all agencies engaging patients, including ambulance services. To date no Australian ambulance service has published comprehensive guidelines or strategies to improve health outcomes for intimate partner violence patients in line with national strategies. To propose key actions for Australian ambulance services to undertake to reduce the impacts of intimate partner violence in line with national strategies. We reviewed the Australian government's National Plan to reduce violence towards women and its supporting literature, and created key actions for Australian ambulance services. Our review has yielded four key actions that Australian ambulance services could undertake immediately for the benefit of intimate partner violence patients. Actions include collaboration with external agencies, education, data collection and ch ioning values promoting zero tolerance of violence towards women. Australian ambulance services are currently underserving intimate partner violence patients and must undertake immediate action. Successful strategies to address knowledge and policy gaps will require significant input and guidance from key organisations, including advocacy groups, police and EDs. It is likely that EDs will need to take the lead in creating comprehensive policies and guidelines from which ambulance services can derive their own policies. Failure to address this practice gap might result in paramedics becoming a barrier for intimate partner patients to receive appropriate care and support.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-11-2019
DOI: 10.1136/POSTGRADMEDJ-2019-137095
Abstract: Acute cholecystitis is an emergency condition. If not promptly diagnosed and properly managed, the complication of gangrenous cholecystitis may develop, which may be a life-threatening complication. The study aims to examine various characteristics and physiological parameters in patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis to evaluate if significant predictive factors exist for the differential diagnosis of gangrenous cholecystitis. This was a retrospective study included patients with acute cholecystitis diagnosis, who presented to ‘blinded for peer review’ from 1 January 2010 to 1 January 2017. Parameters evaluated included liver function tests, complete cell count, C reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), amylase and lipase levels, as well as medical history, and presenting clinical signs. Cases were ided according to whether or not there was a histopathological diagnosis of gangrenous cholecystitis. A total of 186 (54.5%) female and 155 (45.5%) male cases were examined. Patients with gangrenous cholecystitis tended to be male, showed a significantly higher white cell count, higher neutrophil percentage, lower lymphocyte percentage and higher ESR compared with patients without gangrenous cholecystitis. However, serum amylase and lipase demonstrated no differential diagnostic utility Male patients with a high ESR level, high total leucocyte count with a relative high proportion of neutrophils and a low proportion of lymphocytes were found to be at increased risk of the presence of gangrenous cholecystitis.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-10-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.8.1.113
Abstract: 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. 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. A convenience s le 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. 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. 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. 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.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.706
Abstract: Internationally, the development of emergency medical services (EMS) educational standards from a post-employment to pre-employment model has gained considerable momentum. In Saudi Arabia specifically, the evolution to university-based EMS degrees has proceeded swiftly. However, the fast pace of development has contributed to considerable disparities in educational approaches between university programs. Therefore, the development of an empirically-based core competency framework is of considerable importance. The aim of this paper is to utilise confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) through structural equation modelling to confirm the theoretically developed Saudi ParamEdic Competency Scale (SPECS) model. A national cross-sectional study design with purposive s ling technique was utilised with Saudi Red Crescent Authority healthcare providers. The SPECS instrument included 41 core competency items measured on a self-reported Likert scale. The maximum likelihood method was used with all the one factor congeneric and complete CFA models. In total, 477 EMS healthcare professionals contributed to the study: 444 (93.1%) men and 33 (6.9%) women. Of the participants, 282 (59.1%) were 29–39 years of age and 264 (55.3%) had 5 to 9 years’ experience. A CFA of the SPECS model confirmed five congeneric factors within the adequate fit measurement indices: professionalism, preparedness, communication, clinical, and personal. There was one higher order factor titled ‘paramedic competency’. The CFA results support the SPECS as a reliable, valid, unidimensional and psychometrically sound model for operationalisation into Saudi university curricula. The confirmed model is made up of 27 items with five factors and an overarching latent higher order construct. The SPECS model represents an empirically developed blueprint for adoption into Saudi Arabian university programs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2012.06.021
Abstract: Healthcare systems are evolving to feature the promotion of interprofessional practice more prominently. The development of successful and functional interprofessional practice is best achieved through interprofessional learning. Given that most paramedic programmes take an isolative uni-professional educational approach to their healthcare undergraduate courses, serious questions must be raised as to whether students are being adequately prepared for the interprofessional healthcare workplace. The objective of this study was to assess the attitudes of paramedic students towards interprofessional learning across five Australian universities. Using a convenience s le of paramedic student attitudes towards interprofessional learning and cooperation were measured using two standardised self-reporting instruments: Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) and Interdisciplinary Education Perception Scale (IEPS). Students' readiness for interprofessional learning did not appear to be significantly influenced by their gender nor the type of paramedic degree they were undertaking. As students progressed through their degrees their appreciation for collaborative teamwork and their understanding of paramedic identity grew, however this appeared to negatively affect their willingness to engage in interprofessional learning with other healthcare students. The tertiary institute attended also appeared to influence students' preparedness and attitudes to shared learning. This study has found no compelling evidence that students' readiness for interprofessional learning is significantly affected by either their gender or the type of degree undertaken. By contrast it was seen that the tertiary institutions involved in this study produced students at different levels of preparedness for IPL and cooperation.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1017/GHEG.2018.17
Abstract: Evidence exists of an increasing prevalence of chronic conditions within developed and developing nations, notably for priority population groups. The need for the collection of geospatial data to monitor the health impact of rapid social-environmental and economic changes occurring in these countries is being increasingly recognized. Rigorous accuracy assessment of such geospatial data is required to enable error estimation, and ultimately, data utility for exploring population health. This research outlines findings from a field-based evaluation exercise of the SOMAARTH DDESS geospatial-health platform. Participatory-based mixed methods have been employed within Palwal-India to capture villager perspectives on built infrastructure across 51 villages. This study, conducted in 2013, included an assessment of data element position and attribute accuracy undertaken in six villages, documenting mapping errors and land parcel changes. Descriptive analyses of 5.1% ( n = 455) of land parcels highlighted some discrepancies in position (6.4%) and attribute (4.2%) accuracy, and land parcel changes (17.4%). Furthermore, the evaluation led to a refinement of the existing geospatial health platform incorporating ground-truthed reflections from the participatory field exercise. The evaluation of geospatial data accuracies contributes to understandings on global public health surveillance systems, outlining the need to systematically consider assessment of environmental features in relation to lifestyle-related diseases.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2007
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.19.1006
Abstract: Although bullying and harassment among academic staff has been well researched, research on students bullying and harassing academic teaching staff (ie, contrapower harassment) is less common. Contrapower harassment has been on the rise in academia over the last decade, partly attributable to changes in the student-faculty staff relationship. This study aimed to understand better the extent and impact of students’ contrapower harassment on paramedic academic teaching staff within Australian universities, as well as actions and interventions to address it. This study used a two-phase mixed methods design. In phase 1, a convenience s le of paramedic teaching academics from 12 universities in Australia participated in an online questionnaire. In phase 2, an in-depth interview was conducted with nine participants from phase 1. Seventy-six academic teaching staff participated in the study. Survey results showed that most academics surveyed had experienced harassment from paramedic students, with the highest incidence of harassment occurring during student assessment periods. Alarmingly, over 30% of the academics surveyed had been ‘stalked’ by a student and over 50% had felt powerless and helpless when students had attacked them on social media. Problematic students were identified as those who presented with an over-inflated sense of entitlement or with psychological states and traits that find it challenging to accept feedback and failure, and look to externalise their failures. Reasons for increases in contrapower harassment included a complex mix of consumer and demand-driven education, on-demand (and demanding) instant gratification and degree self-entitlement, and an increase in social media and online learning (particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020). Although most of the academics in this study experienced contrapower harassment by students, they also report that most students are level-headed and supportive, and do not carry out this type of harassment. Promoting student professionalism and reassessing student evaluations are starting points for addressing this type of harassment. Further research on the broader systemic issues that influence the contributors to contrapower harassment is needed.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2008
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.8.3.93
Abstract: Factor analysis is a multivariate statistical approach commonly used in psychology, education, and more recently in the health-related professions. This paper will attempt to provide novice researchers with a simplified approach to undertaking exploratory factor analysis (EFA). As the paramedic body of knowledge continues to grow, indeed into scale and instrument psychometrics, it is timely that an uncomplicated article such as this be offered to the paramedic readership both nationally and internationally. Factor analysis is an important tool that can be used in the development, refinement, and evaluation of tests, scales, and measures that can be used in education and clinical contexts by paramedics. The objective of the paper is to provide an exploratory factor analysis protocol, offering potential researchers with an empirically-supported systematic approach that simplifies the many guidelines and options associated with completing EFA.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-02-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S40359-021-00537-2
Abstract: Maths anxiety is defined as a feeling of tension and apprehension that interferes with maths performance ability, the manipulation of numbers and the solving of mathematical problems in a wide variety of ordinary life and academic situations. Our aim was to identify the facilitators and barriers of maths anxiety in university students. A scoping review methodology was used in this study. A search of databases including: Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo, Medline, Education Resources Information Centre, Google Scholar and grey literature. Articles were included if they addressed the maths anxiety concept, identified barriers and facilitators of maths anxiety, had a study population comprised of university students and were in Arabic or English languages. After duplicate removal and applying the inclusion criteria, 10 articles were included in this study. Maths anxiety is an issue that effects many disciplines across multiple countries and sectors. The following themes emerged from the included papers: gender, self-awareness, numerical ability, and learning difficulty. The pattern in which gender impacts maths anxiety differs across countries and disciplines. There was a significant positive relationship between students’ maths self-efficacy and maths performance and between maths self-efficacy, drug calculation self-efficacy and drug calculation performance. Maths anxiety is an issue that effects many disciplines across multiple countries and sectors. Developing anxiety toward maths might be affected by gender females are more prone to maths anxiety than males. Maths confidence, maths values and self-efficacy are related to self-awareness. Improving these concepts could end up with overcoming maths anxiety and improving performance.
Publisher: Australasian Society for Computers in Learning in Tertiary Education
Date: 19-07-2009
DOI: 10.14742/AJET.1143
Abstract: blockquote This paper presents the results of a descriptive longitudinal study which aimed to identify student paramedic perceptions of case based learning used in the clinical curriculum of the Bachelor of Emergency Health (BEH) degree at Monash University, Victoria, Australia. Case based learning and its integration within clinical curriculum is an important part of undergraduate paramedic education at Monash University. The study used self reporting questionnaires involving 247 students. The analysis provides an indication of the students' perceptions of case based learning in their clinical curricula during the 2005-2007 academic years. Quantitative and qualitative data produced encouraging student satisfaction scores and themes emphasising that case based learning was an appropriate, valuable teaching and learning approach. The data also highlighted that improvements are required surrounding student equity and communication between peers and lecturing staff. /blockquote
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S153403
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 22-09-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-06-2019
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-05-2019
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 08-10-2012
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2012.4.10.593
Abstract: Background: Weight estimation in pre-hospital paediatric emergencies is often required for the calculation of drug dosages, fluid therapy and defibrillation. In the pre-hospital field the treatment of a patient needs to occur in a timely and accurate fashion, this necessity drives the need for an accurate weight estimation formula. The objective of this study was to identify a paediatric weight estimation formula relevant to the pre-hospital field. Methods: A literature review was undertaken using a variety of electronic medical databases from their commencement date until the end of May 2012. Keywords used in the search included: Weight estimation, drug calculations, pediatric, paediatric, EMS, EMT, paramedic, emergency medical service, emergency medical technician, pre-hospital, out-of-hospital and ambulance. The keywords were used in idually and in combination. The inclusion criterion was any study type that described the development or evaluation of a paediatric weight calculation in the pre-hospital or hospital setting. Findings: There were 635 articles located with 25 meeting the inclusion criteria. The commonly used APLS weight estimation formula significantly underestimates a child’s weight. The best guess formula appears to be more accurate at estimating the weight however more research needs to be conducted to validate this method for the pre-hospital field. Conclusion: As the average weight of children increases, the accuracy of weight estimation formulas decreases, suggesting that these methods will be unable to sufficiently adjust to deal with future rises in average weights of children. Further research is required to determine the most appropriate formula for paramedics to use in the pre-hospital setting.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 06-01-2021
DOI: 10.1108/IJES-09-2020-0055
Abstract: Saudi female paramedics face many challenges in the current Saudi emergency medical service (EMS). This study aimed to investigate perceptions of EMS experts, leaders, managers and academics about the challenges faced by Saudi female paramedics in the Saudi Arabian EMS workforce. A descriptive qualitative research approach was used employing semi-structured face-to-face interviews with seven EMS leaders, managers and academics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by the work of Braun and Clark. Three themes emerged from the interviews that described EMS experts' perceptions, namely, cultural and family challenges, the value of Saudi female paramedics in the workforce and workforce issues. Overall, the interviews revealed that Saudi females faced several challenges that could affect their job duties and capacity to work in the EMS. Currently, Saudi females face difficulties with family, social and religious responsibilities, such as taking care of children and homes. Workforce issues were also considered problems that affect Saudi female paramedics in the workplace, such as physical fitness and psychological burnout. The EMS leaders, managers and academics emphasised that due to the new Saudi 2030 vision, it is expected and recognised that more females need to be employed in the EMS workforce.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-10-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2014
Abstract: Paramedic fatigue is associated with burnout, attrition, sick leave, work disability, physical and mental health complaints and impaired performance. However, no studies have addressed how fatigue is understood by paramedics. The present study addresses this shortcoming by exploring factors paramedics recognise as contributors to fatigue. Forty-nine (12F 38 years ± 9.7 years) Australian paramedics completed a survey on perceived causes of performance impairing fatigue. A total of 107 responses were systematically coded following principles common to qualitative data analysis: data immersion, coding, categorisation and theme generation. Six themes emerged: working time, sleep, workload, health and well-being, work-life balance and environment. Consistent with a scientific understanding of fatigue, prior sleep and wake, time of day and task-related factors were often identified as contributing to fatigue. In other cases, paramedics' attributions deviated from a scientific understanding of direct causes of fatigue. These findings demonstrate that paramedics have a broad understanding of fatigue. It is critical to take this into account when discussing fatigue with paramedics, particularly in the case of fatigue education or wellness programmes. These data highlight areas for intervention and education to minimise the experience of paramedic fatigue and the negative health and safety outcomes for paramedics and patients as a result.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X00006361
Abstract: Correct identification of the J-Point and ST-segment on an electrocardiograph (ECG) is an important clinical skill for paramedics working in acute healthcare settings. The skill of ECG analysis and interpretation is known to be challenging to learn and often is a difficult concept to teach. The objective of the study was to determine if undergraduate paramedic students could accurately identify ECG ST-segment elevation and J-Point location. A convenience s le of undergraduate paramedic students (n = 148) was provided with four enlarged ECGs (ECG1–4) that illustrated different levels, patterns, and characteristics of ST-segment elevation. Participants were asked to identify whether ST-elevation was present, and if so, height in millimeters (mm) and the correct location of the J-Point. There were significant variations in students'accuracy with both J-Point and ST-segment determination. Eleven (10%) students correctly identified the ST-segment being present in all ECGs. Also, ECG 2 reflected 6 mm of ST-elevation however, only one student correctly identified this. Overall the students were 0.55 mm (95% CI = 0.29–0.81 mm, range = -6.5–5.8 mm) from the J-point on the horizontal and -0.18 mm (95% CI = -0.31–0.04 mm, range = -2.8–2.3 mm) on the vertical axis. Undergraduate paramedic students recognize ST-segment elevation. However, inaccuracies occurred with measurements of ST-segment and precise location of J-Points. Errors in ECG analysis may reflect weaknesses in teaching this skill. Consideration should be given to the design of an educational program that can reliably improve performance of this skill.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2022.101157
Abstract: Ambulance lights and sirens use has traditionally been an important strategy to shorten ambulance travel times. This study explored road users' perceptions toward the importance and risks of lights and sirens use by ambulances in Jordan. A cross-sectional survey was used on a s le of 1700 adult road users in Northern Jordan. The questionnaire included 19 items addressing demographics, driving-related characteristics, and perception statements toward lights and sirens use. Continuous variables were summarized as means and standard deviation and categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was used to assess differences between categorical variable. A total of 1634 participants completed the questionnaire. The mean age was 32.4 (SD ± 11.4) years, and 65.4% were males. Most participants agreed on the importance of using lights and sirens for emergency medical services to function effectively (96.5%), and penalizing those who do not yield to emergency ambulances (90.2%). However, around half of the participants perceive that lights and sirens could be over-used by ambulance personnel (48.1%), provoke distraction (48.7%) and create stress (50.3%) for road users. These negative perceptions were reported more often among males, taxi/bus drivers, and novice drivers. Although the majority of road users, in our region, acknowledge the importance of ambulance lights and sirens use, about half of them perceive that ambulance lights and sirens put them under stress, distraction, and unacceptable risk. Policy-related and educational interventions might be necessary to monitor the use of ambulance lights and sirens and reduce negative road users' perceptions.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 04-03-2013
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2013.5.3.139
Abstract: This paper discusses the pre-hospital clinical management of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffering with haemoptysis. While clear guidelines and procedures exist within hospitals in regard to the management of such patients, the same cannot be said for the pre-hospital setting, with very limited clinical practice guidance. Massive haemoptysis is a serious threat to life, though for some patients such as the CF population, even a minor bleed can have devastating effect on quality of life. This paper proposes a pre-hospital clinical guideline based on a retrospective case series from a large Australian tertiary hospital. It is hoped this paper will provide important clinical information regarding CF patients suffering with haemoptysis as it is imperative the management of these patients is undertaken promptly and is well-informed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2019.102633
Abstract: Self-regulated learning is a model of learning situated in social cognitive theory that views learners as active participants in their learning. Similarly, peer-learning is a pedagogical approach that assigns greater autonomy to the student and known to enhance student learning. The objective of this study was to determine the self-regulated learning strategies used by final year undergraduate nursing students enrolled in a teaching unit that included a component of peer-teaching. A mixed methods study was conducted across four c uses of one university. Three hundred and five undergraduate nursing students completed The Motivational Strategy for Learning Questionnaire and fourteen students consented to interviews. Key findings included the high level of reported motivational and learning strategies used by students in their approach to learning, and in their roles as near-peer teachers. Learning strategies were associated with higher-order learning and near-peer teaching enhanced shared regulation using dyadic teaching. This study has shown how participating in a formal teaching unit prior to graduating may positively influence self-regulatory behaviours and increase student confidence and is therefore uniquely situated to promoting students' anticipatory control over similar opportunities in the clinical setting once they graduate.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 10-09-2021
DOI: 10.1108/IJES-09-2020-0056
Abstract: Paramedics responding to emergencies have proven to have an impact on their mental health and well-being. Therefore, measuring and initiating resilience promotion and development during the educational process could promote health in this group. This study aims to cross-sectionally examine the self-reported resilience levels of bachelor paramedic students at a large Australian university. A cross-sectional study using a convenience s le of first-, second- and third-year bachelor paramedic students was used from a large Australian university. The student’s resilience was measured using the 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) during 2019. Two-hundred and twenty-nine students participated in the study, of which 55% were females. The total mean score for the CD-RISC was 72.6 [standard deviation (SD) = 13.2). The CD-RISC mean score of the first-, second- and third-year levels were 75.3 (SD = 13.2), 70.5 (SD = 14.4) and 73.8 (SD = 10.4), respectively, with no significant statistical difference ( p -value = 0.1) and of which the second year formed the major s le (44.5%). Additionally, our findings show no significant variation in the CD-RISC mean score between males [70.8 (SD = 12.9)] and females [74.1 (SD = 13.3)], with p -value = 0.09. The study findings suggest that paramedic students have moderate levels of self-reported resilience. These results, while specific to one university, provide essential data for the paramedic profession in addressing an important issue facing all paramedics around the world.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2015.05.007
Abstract: The development of successful and functional interprofessional practice is best achieved through interprofessional learning (IPL). Given that many paramedic programmes still take an isolative uni-professional educational approach to their undergraduate courses, it is unclear on their preparedness for students' IPL. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the attitudes of undergraduate paramedic and nursing aramedic students from nine Australian universities towards IPL over a two year period. Using a convenience s le of paramedic and nursing aramedic students-attitudes towards IPL was measured using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) 5-point Likert-scale (1=strongly disagree and 5=strongly agree). A total of 1264 students participated (n=303 in 2011 and n=961 in 2012) in this study, consistent with a 43% response rate. Surveyed students were predominantly first year n=506 (40.03%), female n=748 (59.2%) and undertaking single paramedic degrees n=948 (75.0%). Nursing aramedic students demonstrated significantly lower Negative Professional Identity (M=6.26, p=0.004) and Roles and Responsibilities means (M=6.87, p<0.0001) and higher Positive Professional Identity means (M=15.68, p=0.011) compared with paramedic students. The impact of nursing aramedic education was shown to significantly enhance student attitudes towards interprofessionalism and the in idual universities involved in this study generated students at varying stages of IPL preparedness. Students' year level appeared to influence IPL readiness, yet there are compelling paradoxical arguments for both earlier and later inclusion of IPL within curricula.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-06-2015
Publisher: Canadian Center of Science and Education
Date: 23-04-2018
DOI: 10.5539/GJHS.V10N6P1
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The potential for a medical emergency to occur during dental treatment must be met by dental practitioners who are competent to manage such situations. However the literature shows that not all dentists have received training in this area, and of those who have, many are deficient in knowledge, skills and confidence. The objective of this study was to examine the perceptions of final year Jordanian dental students regarding their education and preparedness to manage medical emergencies.METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional, descriptive study which gathered questionnaire data from an undergraduate student cohort at two Jordanian universities. Descriptive analysis of the data was undertaken, and a Chi-squared test was used to explore the relationships between participants’ responses and the variables of gender and previous attendance at any ME workshop. Statistical significance was deemed at p& .05.RESULTS: Three hundred and seventy dental students responded to the questionnaire with response rates of 76.2% and 81.8% from the two sites. The results indicate that not all of the students had received training in medical emergency management, and their self-reported proficiency and experience was sub-optimal. However, participating in a workshop on managing medical emergencies was associated with changes in some skills and experiences.CONCLUSION: The low levels of medical emergency management knowledge and skills in the final year dental students reflects the situation reported in existing literature. This study indicates the importance of effective medical emergency management training within the dental undergraduate program, and may be used to inform future curricula planning.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2014.07.004
Abstract: The last decade has seen rapid advancement in Australasian paramedic education, clinical practice, and research. Coupled with the movements towards national registration in Australia and New Zealand, these advancements contribute to the paramedic discipline gaining recognition as a health profession. The aim of this paper was to explore paramedic students' views on paramedic professionalism in Australia and New Zealand. Using a convenience s le of paramedic students from Whitireia New Zealand, Charles Sturt University and Monash University, attitudes towards paramedic professionalism were measured using the Professionalism at Work Questionnaire. The 77 item questionnaire uses a combination of binary and unipolar Likert scales (1 = Strongly disagree/5 = Strongly agree Never = 1/Always = 5). There were 479 students who participated in the study from Charles Sturt University n = 272 (56.8%), Monash University n = 145 (30.3%) and Whitireia New Zealand n = 62 (12.9%). A number of items produced statistically significant differences P < 0.05 between universities, year levels and course type. These included: 'Allow my liking or dislike for patients to affect the way I approach them' and 'Discuss a bad job with family or friends outside work as a way of coping'. These results suggest that paramedic students are strong advocates of paramedic professionalism and support the need for regulation. Data also suggest that the next generation of paramedics can be the agents of change for the paramedic discipline as it attempts to achieve full professional status.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.9.1.37
Abstract: A convenience s le of paramedics was asked to complete a number of self-reporting standardised questionnaires: The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) (8-items), Berlin Questionnaire (BQ) (10-items), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (19-items) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) (21-items). Ethics approval was granted. The study recruited 60 participants, the majority of which were male 77% (n=46), 45 years of age 31% (n=19), and having worked shift work between 5-10 years 35% (n=21). Nine out of ten (92%, n=55) of paramedics reported having experienced fatigue in the last 6 months, with 88% (n=53) believing it had affected their performance at work. The ESS reported 30% (n=18) of people had excessive daytime sleepiness, and 10% (n=6) being dangerously sleepy. Statistical significance was observed in the ESS items „chance of dozing while sitting and talking to someone‟ (p .05), and „whilst stopped in traffic for a few minutes‟ (p .05) between males and females. Almost half (48%, n=29) of paramedics answered yes to having nodded off or fallen asleep whilst driving. The PSQI found 68% (n=41) of participants suffered poor quality sleep, while 21 % (n=13) of respondents were at high risk for sleep apnoea (BQ). Depression was found to be mild among 27% (n=16) and moderate among 10% (n=6) of respondents Shift work affects health and well-being both physiologically and psychologically, which translates from work into home. Further research using a larger s le size is warranted to prevent the issues of patient safety, work-related fatigue and the cumulative effects of shift work in paramedic employees.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-06-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-10-2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2013
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 19-10-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-10-2010
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-04-2017
Abstract: This study investigated whether occupational therapy students’ emotional intelligence and personality traits are predictive of their teamwork skills. 114 second and third year undergraduate occupational therapy students (86.6% response rate) completed the Genos Emotional Intelligence Inventory, the Ten-Item Personality Inventory, and the Team Skills Scale. Linear regressions were completed with the Team Skills Scale domains being the dependent variables and the Genos Emotional Intelligence Inventory and Ten-Item Personality Inventory factors being the independent variables. Regression analysis results revealed that the Genos Emotional Intelligence Inventory subscales of emotional reasoning and emotional management of others were significant predictors of students’ teamwork skills. Emotional reasoning accounted for 8.3% of the unique variance of the team skills variable ( p = .001) and emotional management of others contributed 2.4% of the unique variance ( p = .05). The personality traits of extraversion and emotional stability were also found to be significant predictors of students’ teamwork skills, accounting for 7.6% ( p = .002) and 3.6% ( p = .033) respectively of unique variance of the team skills variable. Components of occupational therapy students’ emotional intelligence and specific personality traits were found to be significant predictors of their team skills. Further investigation of this topic is recommended.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 16-11-2015
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2020
Abstract: Health professionals avoiding difficult conversations with each other can lead to serious negative consequences for patients. Clinical supervisors are in the unique position of interacting both with students as well as colleagues and peers. This study explores the avoidance of difficult conversations from the perspective of clinical supervisors in order to better understand why health professionals avoid difficult conversations. This study aimed to identify the reasons why difficult conversations are avoided between health-care professionals and to gain deeper insight into the phenomenon of avoiding difficult conversations in general. Convergent interviewing was used with 20 clinical supervisors to explore the following question: Why do you think that people in your workplace avoid difficult conversations? Major reasons for avoiding difficult conversations included the fear of negative consequences, a general distaste for confrontation, and a lack of confidence in their skills to have such conversations. Additional factors included in idual qualities such as personality type and communication style, available time, size of the workplace, and a range of perceived cultural barriers standing in the way of having difficult conversations. There is a need to encourage clinical supervisors and other health professionals to embrace difficult conversations to reduce adverse events and enhance patient outcomes. This requires additional training and educational opportunities to enhance knowledge, skills, and confidence to plan and engage in difficult conversations. Some types of difficult conversations require more skills than others.
Publisher: Australasian Society for Computers in Learning in Tertiary Education
Date: 16-09-2009
DOI: 10.14742/AJET.1127
Abstract: span The objective for this study was to determine whether learning style preferences of health science students could predict their attitudes to e-learning. A survey comprising the /span em Index of Learning Styles /em span (ILS) and the /span em Online Learning Environment Survey /em span (OLES) was distributed to 2885 students enrolled in 10 different health science programs at an Australian university. A total of 822 useable surveys were returned generating a response rate of 29.3%. Using /span em SPSS /em span , a linear regression analysis was completed. On the ILS Active-Reflective dimension, 44% of health science students reported a preference as being active learners, 60% as sensing learners, and 64% as sequential learners. Students' attitudes toward e-learning using the OLES showed that their /span em referred /em span scores for all 9 subscales were higher than their /span em actual /em span scores. The linear regression analysis results indicated that ILS learning styles accounted for a small percentage of the OLES /span em actual /em span and /span em referred /em span subscales' variance. For the OLES /span em actual /em span subscales, the ILS Active-Reflective and Sensing-Intuitive learning style dimensions were the most frequent predictors of health science students' attitudes towards e-learning. For the OLES /span em referred /em span subscales, ILS Active-Reflective and Sequential-Global learning style dimensions accounted for the most frequent source of variance. It appears that the learning styles of health science students (as measured by the ILS) can be used only to a limited extent as a predictor of students' attitudes towards e-learning. Nevertheless, educators should still consider student learning styles in the context of using technology for instructional purposes. /span
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 11-2010
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.8.4.84
Abstract: This paper illustrates the innovative use of Internet Videoconferencing in a blended and case-based learning approach used to support undergraduate paramedic student learning during weekly clinical problems. Regular Internet Videoconferencing learning periods were offered to students by teaching staff, increasing after-hours communication opportunities otherwise not normally achievable. Whilst encouraging learning outcomes were achieved with some students, other students encountered barriers such as lack of available bandwidth, inappropriate computer hardware and preference for face-to-face contact.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 26-07-2010
Abstract: The Australian healthcare system at all levels is under increasing pressure. The Australian paramedic discipline has seen a remarkable change in a number of areas including education, training, healthcare identity and clinical practice, particularly over the past three decades. Preparing future healthcare graduates for these expected changes therefore requires careful alignment of graduate attributes to core curriculum. To establish which graduate attributes best meet the current and future needs of the Australian paramedic discipline. A convenience s le was used for the pilot study involving context experts from paramedic education and training sectors in Australia. Participants rated 56 items using a Likert scale on a paper-based self-reporting questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis was undertaken on 50 items using principal components analysis (PCA) followed by varimax rotation. A total of 63 content and knowledge experts participated in the study 40 (63.5%) were male and 23 (36.5%) were female, with 28 (44%) aged 35-44 years. PCA of the 50 items revealed 10 factors with eigenvalues >1, accounting for 77.3% of the total variance. Items with loadings more than ±0.40 with the factor in question were used to characterise the factor solutions. It is critical that empirically-based paramedic graduate attributes are developed and agreed upon by both the industry and teaching institutions. Until this occurs, the national standardisation, accreditation and benchmarking of Australian paramedic education programmes will not be possible.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S140839
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.WOMBI.2011.02.003
Abstract: This exploratory study investigated empathy and attitudes towards specific medical conditions, two important aspects of the midwife-woman relationship, amongst undergraduate midwifery students at one university. Fifty-two Bachelor of Midwifery students across three years of the course completed questionnaires, the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy-Health Professional (JSPE-HP) version and the Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS). Both the JSPE-HP and the MCRS are standardised, self-report questionnaires with established reliability and validity. An overall respectable level of empathy was measured, which was shown to increase consistently and substantially with each year level of the student undergraduate program. Attitudes to selected diagnoses were very good with the exception being substance abuse, which received a significantly lower mean. The results of this study indicate that the Bachelor of Midwifery course, or studying midwifery, has a positive effect on students' empathy. Low results in participants' attitudes towards patients presenting with substance abuse raises concern that students may harbour prejudice that could impinge upon their professional practice and the way in which they care for these mothers. Hence, this aspect in particular may need further development within midwifery curriculum development. Further research around other conditions may extend on our understandings of empathy and attitudes in midwifery students and practitioners.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-06-2017
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12354
Abstract: Previous studies indicate that healthcare professionals find it challenging to engage in difficult conversations regarding concerning behavior of colleagues. As a result, these conversations are often avoided. The inability to have these difficult conversations is associated with poorer patient outcomes, staff commitment, discretionary effort, and employee satisfaction. This descriptive study used an online questionnaire to examine responses of paramedics employed by Ambulance Victoria (Australia) regarding difficult conversations between colleagues about concerning behavior of co-workers. The results suggest that, like other healthcare professions, many paramedics find it challenging to raise these concerns. To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first study of its type to be undertaken within the paramedic profession and provides a platform for further research within this and other health professions.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-07-2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.688
Abstract: IntroductionThe emergency medical services (EMS) education in Saudi Arabia has evolved considerably during the past decade and this rapid improvement has seen a disparity of educational approaches. Therefore, a core competency framework which aligns with the requirements of Saudi EMS education should be identified and accommodated. The aim of this study was to obtain professional group consensus on the desirable core competencies for EMS Bachelor degree graduates in Saudi Arabia in order to develop a core competency framework for Saudi Arabian EMS.MethodsA two-round Delphi method using a quantitative survey with a purposeful s ling technique of expert information-rich participants was used. The instrument comprised 40 core competency statements (rated on a 1-10 Likert scale, with 1 being ‘not important at all’ and 10 being ‘extremely important’) and an open-ended question. An international systematic scoping review and local national review informed the items in this study.ResultsAt the end of the second round, the response rate was 70%, and the s le demonstrated ersity in terms of qualifications, expertise and discipline. All core competencies achieved a majority and stability in the first and second rounds. Core competency items achieved the 75% consensus requirement.ConclusionThis study provided consensus on 41 core competencies specific to Saudi EMS industry requirements. However, the findings do not represent a definitive blueprint model for alignment into EMS curricula. Further research and statistical modelling for the core competencies are highly recommended.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-01-2014
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12105
Abstract: Interprofessional education is increasingly a core component of health professional curricula. It has been suggested that interprofessional education can directly enhance patient care outcomes. However, literature has reported many difficulties in its successful implementation. This study investigated students' perceptions of participating in an online, Web-based module to facilitate interprofessional education. Three focus groups, each with 13-15 students, from emergency health (paramedic), nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and nutrition and dietetics were conducted with students who participated in an online interprofessional education module at one Australian university. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze interview transcripts. Four themes emerged: professional understanding, patient-centeredness, comparison with other interprofessional education activities, and overcoming geographical boundaries. Students were overwhelmingly positive about their learning experiences and the value of the module in assisting their understandings of the roles of other health professionals. Online approaches to interprofessional education have the potential to enhance learning and overcome geographical and logistical issues inherent in delivering face-to-face interprofessional education. Furthermore, our design approach allowed students to watch how other health professionals worked in a way that they were unable to achieve in clinical practice.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 10-06-2013
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2013.5.6.336
Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine undergraduate students' views of paramedic clinical teachers from a large Australian university. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving a paper-based questionnaire employing a convenience s le of undergraduate paramedic students. Student attitudes towards paramedic clinical in-field teachers were measured using a standardised self-reporting instrument: Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Inventory (CTEI). Participants rate their level of agreement with each item on a 5-point Likert scale (1=never oor to 5=always/superb). Results: This research indicates that the clinical teachers are able to assist the graduates with the integration of the theory into the practice. There was significant difference between subscale 1‘Learner-centred instructional skills’ and those aged between years and those aged between 35–39 years (p=0.013). Conclusion: This study has provided some insight into this important area. Before any definitive conclusions can be made this study needs to be repeated on a larger scale and across other jurisdictions. To establish a clearer picture we need a greater knowledge and understanding of the levels of education and experience of the clinical teachers. This should assist in building the graduates' epistemology of practice.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 18-10-2012
Abstract: This paper investigates the literature regarding the impact of shift work on prehospital emergency providers. While the issue of shift work has been thoroughly investigated in other health disciplines, this is not the case for the paramedic discipline, particularly in the Australian context. To identify the literature available on prehospital providers regarding the effects of shift work on sleep. Electronic databases used were the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Ovid MEDLINE, Proquest, AMED and CINAHL. The following MeSH terms and keywords with truncation were used in the search strategy: 'shift work' 'sleep disorder' 'sleep deprivation' 'circadian rhythm' 'fatigue' 'occupational stress'. The electronic databases cited 226 articles, of which nine met the inclusion criteria with another three articles sourced from references in the retrieved papers. There is a lack of literature describing the effect of shift work on sleep in the prehospital arena, with only one paper exploring paramedics in the Australian setting. These findings suggest that further work is required to examine shift hours and workforce health and safety in the prehospital setting. Shift work can affect health and well-being on a variety of levels, both physiologically and psychologically, affecting aspects of work and personal life. Further research is warranted to prevent the issues of patient safety, work-related fatigue and the cumulative effects of shift work.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 03-09-2020
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with time delay to emergency medical services for patients with suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction. This observational study involved 1994 suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients presenting to the emergency medical services in Melbourne, Australia, between October 2011–January 2014. Factors associated with delays to emergency medical services call of & h and emergency medical services self-referral were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. The time of symptom onset was reported for 1819 patients (91.2%), the median symptom onset-to-call time was 52 min (interquartile range = 17–176). Of all emergency medical services calls, 17% were referred by healthcare professionals. Compared to self-referred patients, patients who presented to a general practitioner or hospital had higher odds of delay & h to emergency medical services activation (adjusted odds ratio 7.76 95% confidence interval 5.10–11.83 and 8.02 3.65–17.64, respectively). The other factors associated with emergency medical services call delays of & h were living alone, non-English speaking background, a history of substance abuse, less severe symptoms, symptom onset at home and at rest, and self-treatment. Emergency medical services self-referred patients were more likely to be older than 75 years, have a history of ischemic heart disease or revascularization, more severe symptoms, and symptom onset at home, with activity, during the weekends and out-of-hours. Almost one-fifth of emergency medical services calls for suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction were healthcare referrals, and this was associated with increased delays. A wide range of factors could influence a patient’s decision to directly and rapidly seek emergency medical services. More efforts are needed to educate at-risk populations about early self-referral to the emergency medical services.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S96591
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S77779
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-12-2019
Abstract: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses significant challenges to in iduals and broader society, much of which is borne by disadvantaged and marginalised population groups including Indigenous people. The increasing prevalence of T2DM among Indigenous people has meant that rates of diabetes-related complications such as blindness from end-stage diabetic retinopathy (DR) continue to be important health concerns. Australia, a high-income and resource-rich country, continues to struggle to adequately respond to the health needs of its Indigenous people living with T2DM. Trends among Indigenous Australians highlight that the prevalence of DR has almost doubled over two decades, and the prevalence of diabetes-related vision impairment is consistently reported to be higher among Indigenous Australians (5.2%–26.5%) compared to non-Indigenous Australians (1.7%). While Australia has collated reliable estimates of the eye health burden owing to T2DM in its Indigenous population, there is fragmentation of existing data and limited knowledge on the underlying risk factors. Taking a systems approach that investigates the social, environmental, clinical, biological and genetic risk factors, and—importantly—integrates these data, may give valuable insights into the most important determinants contributing to the development of diabetes-related blindness. This knowledge is a crucial initial step to reducing the human and societal impacts of blindness on Indigenous Australians, other priority populations and society at large.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-12-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESUSCITATION.2022.03.026
Abstract: To examine global variation in the incidence and outcomes of emergency medical services (EMS) witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). We systematically reviewed four electronic databases for studies between 1990 and 5th April 2021 reporting EMS-witnessed OHCA populations. Studies were included if they reported sufficient data to calculate the primary outcome of survival to hospital discharge or 30-day survival. Random-effects models were used to pool incidence and survival outcomes, and meta-regression was used to examine sources of heterogeneity. Study quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. The search returned 1178 non-duplicate titles of which 66 articles comprising 133,981 EMS-witnessed patients treated by EMS across 33 countries were included. All but one study was observational and only 12 studies (18%) were deemed to be at low risk of bias. The pooled incidence of EMS-treated cases was 4.1 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI: 3.5, 4.7), varying almost 4-fold across continents. The pooled proportion of survivors to hospital discharge or 30-days was 20% overall (95% CI: 18%, 22% I We identified significant global variation in the incidence and survival outcome of EMS-witnessed OHCA. Further research is needed to understand the factors contributing to these variations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 24-05-2011
Abstract: This study examined the construct validity of the Paramedic Graduate Attribute scale (PGAS) using factor analysis and Rasch Analysis. A convenience s le was used in the study involving paramedics from all states and territories in Australia. Participants were asked to rate the importance of 47 graduate attribute items. Principal components analysis (PCA) was undertaken on the 47 items followed by Oblique Oblimin rotation. For the Rasch analysis item fit, item invariance and dimensionality were examined. A total of 872 paramedics participated in the study (23% response rate). PCA of the 47 items revealed seven factors with eigenvalues greater than 1, accounting for 40.6% of the total variance. The subsequent Rasch analyses based on the seven factors produced seven misfitting items and confirmed a 7-factor solution. The 7-factor PGAS produced a good fit to the Rasch Model and exhibited good reliability and unidimensionality, offering the Australian paramedic discipline a set of empirically based graduate attributes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2022
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S150604
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2012
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.12968/IPPR.2012.2.2.34
Abstract: This paper discusses the pre-hospital clinical management of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffering with haemoptysis. While clear guidelines and procedures exist within hospitals in regard to the management of such patients, the same cannot be said for the pre-hospital setting, with very limited clinical practice guidance. Massive haemoptysis is a serious threat to life, though for some patients such as the CF population, even a minor bleed can have devastating effect on quality of life. This paper proposes a pre-hospital clinical guideline based on a retrospective case series from a large Australian tertiary hospital. It is hoped this paper will provide important clinical information regarding CF patients suffering with haemoptysis as it is imperative the management of these patients is undertaken promptly and is well-informed.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 16-07-2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.6.4.470
Abstract: We report the preliminary findings of a project that sought the views of first year undergraduate health science students about interprofessional education (IPE) and how they perceived the interaction between different “professions” in the health care context. Students were also asked about the use of wireless keypads in undergraduate classroom learning environments and whether it suited their learning approaches. The aim of this study was to ascertain undergraduate health science student views on IPE and educational technology during the first year of their undergraduate course. The study used a pre-test post-test methodology investigating IPE perspectives and attitudes towards educational technology (wireless keypads). This paper will report on the initial pre-test results.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2016.03.024
Abstract: Due to the erse and ever-changing nature of the healthcare industry, teaching pedagogies such as peer-assisted learning (PAL) are being implemented to align with external competency standards. A scoping review was conducted in order to map the breadth of literature available on PAL and its impact on student performance. This review used Arksey and O'Malley's six stage scoping methodology. The databases searched included: Cinahl, Ovid Medline, Proquest and Embase as well as grey literature sites and dissertations. 22 articles were included in this review, 10 of which were mixed methods randomised controlled trials, one retrospective study, four controlled trials, two randomised cross over controlled trial, three prospective randomised controlled trials, one thesis and one comparative research design. Analysis of the included articles identified three major themes outlining student performance. Student teachers themselves showed the most significant improvement in objective outcomes. The predominant healthcare field addressed were medical students with very few studies being completed on other professions. The search indicated an overall positive response to PAL with the measurable outcome of student tutors being of most significance. Further research is required to determine the relevance for the wider healthcare community.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.6.4.474
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.5.2.411
Abstract: To identify if undergraduate paramedic students are accurate at identifying J Point and ST segments on electrocardiograms. A prospective single-blinded observational pilot study asking students to identify ST segment and J point location on four different ECG complexes Of 32 students that participated in the study the findings demonstrated variations in students’ accuracy with both J Point and ST segment identification. Undergraduate paramedic students in most cases were able to recognise ST segment elevation however, definition of the amount of ST segment elevation varied greatly. A quarter of students did not complete all 4 J Point estimations. Overall the student's estimations varied considerably. Results from this pilot study have identified significant variation in students’ interpretation of J Point and ST Segment in ECG analysis.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.17.834
Abstract: This study aimed to examine the quality of published paramedic scoping reviews against pre-existing frameworks to assess the extent to which they fulfil the requirements of this methodological approach. Subsequently, recommendations will be presented regarding improvements for future paramedic scoping reviews. A scoping review was conducted guided by the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. A literature search was performed in six electronic databases as well as the grey literature to identify previous scoping reviews that focussed on paramedic or emergency medical service personnel. Relevant data were extracted from included articles and presented in narrative and tabular formats. The literature search initially identified 475 articles, of which 20 remained after title/abstract and full-text screening. There was a general increase in the number of studies published over time, the majority of articles (80%) had conducted their scoping review utilising published frameworks, and 75% of first authors were paramedics. Although many areas of these reports comply with published guidelines, there was an overall lack of consistency in the specific information included, the level of detail of that information, and the location of information within the reports. All paramedic scoping studies should be reported with the use of a published framework to enable standardisation in the reporting, thus facilitating understanding, reproducibility, and utility. The PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews provides a checklist and thorough explanations of each step in the reporting process and is recommended for use with all future paramedic scoping reviews.
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 11-11-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2015.05.024
Abstract: An ability to accurately perform drug calculations unassisted is an essential skill for all health professionals, with various occupational-specific stressors exacerbating mathematical deficiencies. The objective of this study was to determine the unaided mathematic ability of first year undergraduate paramedic students before and after mathematical and drug calculation tutorials. Students were administered a questionnaire containing demographic, drug calculation and arithmetic questions during week one of the semester before the tutorials. During the semester students participated in three 2-hour tutorials which included both mathematical and drug calculation questions without assistance of computational devices. At the end of semester was a summative drug calculation examination of which five key questions were compared to similar questions from the first questionnaire. Descriptive statistics describe the demographic data with a paired t-test comparing the questionnaire and exam results. Drug calculation and mathematical ability was markedly improved following the tutorials, mean score of correct answers before 1.74 (SD 1.4) and after 4.14 (SD 0.93), p<0001. When comparing the correct results for the same question type, there were statistically significant differences in four of five different drug calculations: volume of drug drawn up 10 v 57 p<0.0001, infusion rate 29 v 31 p=0.717, drip rate 16 v 54 p<0.0001, volume from a syringe 30 v 59 p<0.0001, and drug dose 42 v 62 p<0.0001. Total errors reduced from 188 to 45. First year undergraduate paramedic students initially demonstrated a poor ability to complete mathematical and drug calculations without the assistance of computational devices. This improved significantly following appropriate education and practice. Further research is required to determine the retention of this ability over time.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.11124/JBISRIR-2017-003738
Abstract: The primary review question is: what is the global incidence rate of emergency medical services (EMS)-attended and EMS-treated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) precipitated by drug overdose in adults? The secondary review questions are: what proportion of adults with EMS-treated overdose OHCA: i) survived to hospital discharge or 30 days, ii) survived with intact neurological function at hospital discharge (i.e. Cerebral Performance Category or modified Rankin Scale ≤ 2), iii) achieved prehospital return of spontaneous circulation, iv) survived to hospital, and v) survived to 12 months?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2012.11.010
Abstract: Understanding students' attitudes towards certain medical conditions and diagnoses is an important part of the foundational education that students receive prior to their progression into the health care workforce. Therefore having instruments such as the Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS) with strong measurement properties is important for health care professions. The objective of this paper was to examine the factor structure of the MCRS when completed by a group of undergraduate paramedic and paramedic/nursing students. Data from the MCRS completed by 783 paramedic students were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) followed by a maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test goodness-of-fit to the s le data. Two factors emerged from the EFA labelled Positive Regard and Negative Regard that accounted for 52.67% of the total variance. The 10-item 2-factor model produced good model-fit and good reliability estimates. One MCRS item was discarded since it loaded on a single factor and was not considered to be viable as a stand-alone subscale. Findings from the CFA suggest that the new 10-item version of the MCRS is a valid and reliable measure for determining undergraduate paramedic students' regard for medical conditions. The new 2-factor model appears to be defined by Positive Regard and Negative Regard factors.
Publisher: Springer Publishing Company
Date: 20-06-2022
Abstract: Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) in undergraduate nursing students. Method: An exploratory factor analysis was conducted to assess the reliability and construct validity of the MSLQ, using principal axis factoring (PAF) and varimax rotation on the 81-items. Results: 300 Students completed the MSLQ. The MSLQ with 81-items produced an 8-factor solution, eigenvalues greater than 1.0, with only three of the original MSLQ factors retained. Cronbach alpha ranged from .69 to .89 parallel analysis results ranged from 2.22 to 1.80 across the factors. Conclusion: The difference in the empiric fit between the data and the theoretical model suggests the need for instrument revisions, at least for this learner population.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.6.3.460
Abstract: This paper will be the first in a series outlining the contemporary use of educational technology in paramedic higher education. This paper describes a pilot study, which examines the student use of podcasting service within a Bachelor of Emergency Health (BEH) degree. The aim of this study is to report student usage patterns of the podcasting service as well as any perceived advantages or disadvantages to podcasting. Second and third year undergraduate paramedic students (n=67) were surveyed with respect to their use of the podcasting service in 2006. An annual audit of students’ learning needs was taken from 2006-2008 with respect to relevant general student profile information. Almost two-thirds n=42 (62.7%) of the students did not download the Podcast lecture material. Of those that did, twenty students (29.9%) used Podcasts for reviewing lecture content only two (3%) as a substitute to attending the lecture. Students described positive benefits as well as difficulties with the technology seventeen (25.4%) reported revising concepts which they had not understood. The audit demonstrated that in Semester 1, 2008, 83% of students owned iPods or equivalent. While only a minority of BEH students listened to the podcast lectures, those that did reported use for revision of theoretical concepts and revision for examinations. Podcasting appears to have significant potential for mobile learning (m-learning) allowing some students the capacity to utilise their study time more effectively. Podcasting may well prove useful for particular students, and should be given some qualified support.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.JFLM.2010.08.004
Abstract: The leading risk factor of morbidity and mortality in Victorian women aged between 15 and 45 years is intimate partner violence (IPV) (approximately 8 times than that of smoking). Paramedics are frequently the first point of contact for victims of IPV. Due to this unique viewpoint, paramedics have the advantage of potentially identifying and reporting IPV, which can then result in early intervention. This article will summarise the literature regarding pre-hospital provider knowledge of IPV.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-10-2020
Publisher: Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation
Date: 25-08-2021
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 25-07-2011
Abstract: A short cut review was carried out to establish which intraosseous device is best for use in the prehospital environment. A total of 2100 papers were found using the reported search, of which 2 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results, and study weaknesses of these best papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line is that traditional manual intraosseous infusion devices have better success rates and faster insertion times compared with semi-automatic intraosseous infusion devices in the prehospital setting.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2021.105181
Abstract: Paramedics provide care in medical emergencies to patients with varying ages and from a range of settings, cultures, backgrounds and experiences. As such, the paramedic needs a very erse skill set which is difficult to obtain at university. For this reason, undergraduate paramedic students often engage in clinical placements to apply their knowledge to real world experiences. Most of these placements, however, are in hospitals or ambulance settings, but part of the erse community that paramedics treat are children with special needs, including children with disabilities. This study measured the attitudes of paramedic students to people with disabilities and explored the effectiveness of paramedic student clinical placements in special needs schools. 109 paramedic students enrolled in their first year of the Bachelor of Paramedicine at Monash University undertook placements in special needs schools across Victoria, Australia. These students completed the Interactions with Disabled Persons Scale. Of these students, 5 participated in two focus groups to gain a deeper understanding of their placement experience. The results showed that paramedic students enjoyed their placements and gained a more positive attitude towards special needs students, but also felt challenged and overwhelmed. Also found were four main characteristics that students believed paramedics needed to be effective empathy, being genuine, the ability to listen to someone even though they are not speaking to you verbally, and the ability to gain the trust of someone quickly where gaining trust is difficult. This study was the first time an entire cohort of paramedic students have undertaken placements at special needs schools. The findings provide a baseline and incentive for further exploration of the benefits of the placement of paramedic students (and student from a variety of healthcare professions) in special needs schools, as well as other marginalised communities.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2015.09.002
Abstract: Empathetic behaviour is regarded as a positive trait amongst healthcare professionals and has been attributed to increased patient compliance, greater patient satisfaction, and greater diagnostic accuracy and reduced rates of clinical errors. In particular, paramedic students have typically displayed lower rates of empathy when compared to their healthcare counterparts. The objective of this study is to assess both the level of empathy and changes in empathy in undergraduate paramedic students over a 3-year period at a single tertiary institution. A cross sectional study employing a convenience s le of first, second and third year undergraduate paramedic students at Monash University. Student empathy scores where measured with the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Profession Student version (JSE-HPS) a validated, self-reporting questionnaire. 552 students were enrolled in the study. The mean overall JSE-HPS score for the cohort was 108.60 (SD = 12.50). Female students displayed significantly higher empathy scores of 110.27 (SD = 11.62) compared to males at 105.36 (SD = 13.57). There was also a significant difference (p = 0.03) noted between the 2008 JSE-HPS score 106.32 (SD = 14.02), when compared to the 2009 cohort, 110.18 (SD = 12.91). Results from this study suggest that paramedic students display lower empathy than those reported by fellow healthcare students within the literature.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-04-2021
Abstract: Understanding the impact different journal articles have in any academic field is important – particularly in emerging professions. A bibliometric analysis like this does not yet exist for paramedicine, despite the rapid increase in its primary literature. The objective of the present study was to identify and analyse the 100 top‐cited articles about paramedicine. We searched the Scopus database in August 2020 for studies relating to paramedicine. After screening titles and abstracts, we extracted the citation count, journal name, publication year, and country of origin. We manually assessed whether the study was clinical or not, noted the sex of the authors, the profession of first and last authors and the study design used. The median citation count for the top 100 papers in paramedicine was 58 (interquartile range 46–84 citations). The articles were published across 48 different journals, with Resuscitation and Prehospital Emergency Care being the two most frequent. The top‐cited paramedic papers originated from 16 different countries and were written predominantly by medical doctors. Three quarters (73%) of the studies had a clinical focus, and a quarter (26%) were randomised controlled trials. The evolution of paramedicine towards professionalism is backed up by the growth of its own body of knowledge. This analysis of the 100 most cited studies in paramedicine is the first of its kind and highlights that paramedicine articles have a high citation count and are published across numerous journals, but with a relative lack of contribution from paramedic practitioners and female researchers.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 13-04-2013
DOI: 10.1136/EMERMED-2012-201277
Abstract: The accurate assessment of a patient's conscious state using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is an important skill for paramedics as it may determine the patient's initial and ongoing management. The objective of this study was to determine if undergraduate paramedic students from a large Australian University were able to accurately interpret a variety of conscious states. A prospective double-blinded observational pilot study requiring students to interpret the conscious state of four adult patients using the GCS by viewing a simulation DVD package. There were 137 students who participated in the study, of whom 65% (n=87) were female students. The results demonstrated that undergraduate paramedic students were unable to accurately interpret a number of patient conscious states with only 20% and 37% of students able to accurately identify the GCS of patients 2 (GCS=12) and 3 (GCS=7). The motor component of the GCS appeared to be the component where the least accurate interpretation occurred, with only 47% of students being able to accurately identify the criteria that patient 3 displayed. Participants were however able to accurately interpret the GCS of both patient 1 (GCS=14) (86%) and patient 4 (GCS=15) (92%). This pilot study demonstrates that undergraduate paramedic students from an Australian university were unable to accurately interpret a patient's conscious state if their GCS score was <14. These findings have provided academic staff with important information for considering alternative teaching and learning strategies and approaches in conscious state assessment in current paramedic curricula.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-12-2013
DOI: 10.1111/J.1442-2018.2012.00719.X
Abstract: Evidence now suggests that improved empathic behaviors can have a positive impact on healthcare outcomes. Therefore, having psychometrically-sound empathy scales is important for healthcare educators. In this study, the factor structure of the 20-item Jefferson Scale Empathy-Health Profession Students' version, when completed by a group of undergraduate paramedic students from a large Australian university, was investigated. Data from the Scale completed by 330 paramedic students were analyzed using principal components analysis followed by a maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis to test goodness of fit to the s le data. Two factors emerged from the principal components analysis, "compassionate care" and "perspective taking", accounting for 44.2% of the total variance. The 17-item two-factor model produced good model fit and good reliability estimates. Three of the original items did not fit the model. Results from the confirmatory factor analysis suggest that the 17-item Jefferson Scale Empathy-Health Profession Students' version is a valid and reliable measure for undergraduate paramedic students' empathy levels.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-09-2021
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12786
Abstract: This study aims to describe the demographic and employment characteristics of first‐year graduates from a Victorian‐based paramedicine course and investigate factors that influenced their choice in place of practice. Cross‐sectional study using data from the Nursing and Allied Health Graduate Outcomes Tracking study. Victoria, Australia. First‐year graduates (2019) from the Monash University range of paramedicine programs. Variables of interest included principal place of practice and the reasons for working in the current location. Over half of the 2018 paramedicine course graduates responded to the 2019 Graduate Outcomes Survey. Nearly all were registered as paramedics (including double registrants as nurses), and over a fifth were from a rural background however, less than that were working in a rural area. Of those with complete data, the most cited reasons for current work location were ‘spouse artner’s employment or career’, ‘opportunity for career advancement’ and ‘scope of practice within the role’. This study provides important insight into the factors associated with rural practice location amongst paramedicine graduates, specifically rural origin or personal, lifestyle and professional influences. The study adds to the sparse literature about paramedic practice location decision‐making and highlights the need for further systematic longitudinal research examining the ‘where’ and ‘why’.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.4.4.394
Abstract: To analyse Monash University pre-employment students’ concerns about gaining employment with ambulance services in Australia. A Likert-based questionnaire and open-ended questions. On c us study, Peninsula C us, Frankston, Australia. Eighty-eight (n=88) students studying the Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) degree at Monash University. Interestingly, 45% of students intend to only apply to a Victorian ambulance service, with less than 10% of students stating they would accept an interstate position if successful in a Victorian service and interstate. Thematic analysis gained from the open-ended questions also emphasised many concerns students had regarding employment from a pre-employment perspective including: pre-employment education not being recognised, lack of workload, geographical isolation once employed and perception of being too young. The findings of this study highlight many barriers in gaining employment and emphasise pertinent issues that not only currently confront the students of pre-employment education at Monash University, but also for pre-employment students studying around Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2021.101115
Abstract: There is a lack of research on compassion within paramedicine practice despite it being a fundamental component of healthcare. Existing studies have focussed primarily on the related concept of empathy. Additionally, the concept of common humanity has been suggested as a core component of compassion, and it informs the assessment scale utilised in the present study. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed on the 9-item Compassionate Love Scale for Humanity (CLS-H-SF), using a convenience s le of paramedicine students from an Australian university. A total of 225 students completed the study (55% response rate). EFA of the CLS-H-SF supported a one-factor solution with all items being retained and accounted for 53.26% of the total explained variance. The Cronbach alpha coefficient for the 9-items was α .909 indicating excellent internal consistency. Factor analysis supported results from a previous psychometric examination of the CLS-H-SF, indicating that the scale shows strong psychometric properties. The literature has also reported other abridged versions of the original 21-item scale however, these have not been tested within a paramedicine cohort. This evaluation suggests that the CLS-H-SF demonstrates robust psychometric characteristics when used in an Australian paramedic student cohort. Although further examination is warranted, it appears that the CLS-H-SF may be a valuable tool to examine compassion within paramedicine students.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2018.12.009
Abstract: The need for increased education on intimate partner violence (IPV) for healthcare practitioners has been well established. Most Australian healthcare practitioners are educated at university, where educational interventions could be delivered to students. Specific IPV outcome measurement instruments demonstrating sound psychometric properties would enable accurate evaluation of educational interventions to ensure effectiveness. The psychometric properties of the Modified Physician REadiness to Manage Intimate partner violence Scale (Modified PREMIS) were measured when delivered to a cohort of Australian paramedic and nursing students, performing principal component analysis, and evaluating dimensionality, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. In total, 260 responses were received, participants were primarily paramedicine students (85.0%) with the remainder double degree nursing and paramedicine students (15.0%). Actual and Perceived Knowledge and Perceived Preparation subscales demonstrated variable validity and reliability. Principal component analysis of opinion items revealed a 5-factor solution, with identified subscales demonstrating mostly low internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha between 0.47 and 0.80). Correlations between subscales demonstrated few significant correlations above r = 0.3 which may indicate problems with construct validity. Medium to high test-retest reliability was found for subscales with spearman's rho values between 0.63 and 0.88. The scale did not demonstrate robust psychometric properties and some items may not be appropriate for use with Australian healthcare student cohorts. Pending revisions and subsequent psychometric appraisal the instrument should be used with caution however an updated instrument may contribute as a valuable tool for IPV educational research and this paper provides several findings which may be of use when revising the scale.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-03-2013
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12040
Abstract: Teaching is a key role for nurses in contemporary clinical practice. Consequently, peer-assisted learning continues to gather momentum in nursing education in tertiary and professional education settings. In this study, we investigated the factor structure of the Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire when completed by a group of nursing undergraduates from a large Australian university. Data from the 14-item Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire completed by third year undergraduate nursing students were analyzed using factor analysis. A total of 257 final (third)-year undergraduate nursing students participated in the study. Factor analysis of the 14 items revealed three factors with eigenvalues above 1, accounting for 47.3% of the total variance. Items with loadings greater than ± 0.40, with the factor in question, were used to characterize the factor solutions. Findings from the exploratory factor analysis provide preliminary results that the Peer Teaching Experience Questionnaire has adequate dimensionality and reliability.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2021.105165
Abstract: Interprofessional education within healthcare has been shown to have many benefits, however, it is a relatively new educational concept within the Arabic setting. Although the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale is a commonly utilised tool to examine student attitudes, there is a lack of evidence for use of an Arabic translated version. The aim of this study was to develop and psychometrically evaluate an Arabic language version of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale with Saudi nurses. Two independent translators, proficient in both English and Arabic languages, completed a forward-backward translation of the original English version of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale. Subsequently, this Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale-Arabic version was used to collect data from undergraduate nursing students enrolled at a number of Saudi Arabian universities. Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses were then performed on the scale. Six hundred and fifty-two participants were recruited. Exploratory Factor Analysis of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale-Arabic version resulted in a 15-item, three-factor model. Subsequent analysis with Confirmatory Factor Analysis and the resultant final 13-item model demonstrated a poor fit between the hypothesized model and the data. Although our three-factor model is supported by previous studies, the proposed model did not perform well on Confirmatory Factor Analysis assessment. This suggests that there may be issues of applicability of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale-Arabic version within the current cohort. The present study of the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale-Arabic version has demonstrated some psychometric inadequacies and thus it is possible that this scale may not be appropriate for use with Saudi nurses. However further research with different professional groups is suggested to fully explore its utility within the Saudi setting.
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 16-08-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2016.12.004
Abstract: Near Peer teaching (NPT) is reported as an effective pedagogical approach to student learning and performance. Studies in medicine, nursing and health sciences have relied mainly on self-reports to describe its benefits, focusing on psychomotor and cognitive aspects of learning. Despite increasing research reports on peer teaching internationally, little is known about the various domains of learning used in assessment of performance and objective learning outcomes of NPT. To determine the domains of learning and assessment outcomes used in NPT in undergraduate health professional education. Quantitative systematic review was conducted in accord with the PRISMA protocol and the Joanna Briggs Institute processes. A wide literature search was conducted for the period 1990-November 2015 of fourteen databases. Grey literature was undertaken from all key research articles. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were eligible for consideration, including measured learning outcomes of near-peer teaching in undergraduate education in nursing, medicine and health sciences. Set limitations included publications after 1990 (2015 inclusive), English language and objective learning outcomes. A quality appraisal process involving two independent reviewers was used to analyse the data. Of 212 selected articles, 26 were included in the review. Terminology was confusing and found to be a barrier to the review process. Although some studies demonstrated effective learning outcomes resulting from near-peer teaching, others were inconclusive. Studies focused on cognitive and psychomotor abilities of learners with none assessing metacognition, affective behaviours or learning outcomes from quality of understanding. The studies reviewed focused on cognitive and psychomotor abilities of learners. Even though evidence clearly indicates that metacognition and affective behaviours have direct influence on learning and performance, indicating more research around this topic is warranted. Methodological quality of the studies and lack of theoretical frameworks underpinned by educational psychology may have contributed to inconsistencies in learning outcomes reported.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-04-2013
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12046
Abstract: The Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale measures readiness for self-directed learning among undergraduate healthcare students. While several exploratory factor analyses and one confirmatory factor analysis have examined the psychometric properties of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale, questions have been raised regarding the underlying latent constructs being measured. The objective of this study was to determine the best-fitting Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale factorial structure among three models published in the literature. Data from the three-factor 40-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale completed by 233 undergraduate paramedic students from four Australian universities (response rate of 26%) were analyzed using maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis. Comparison of model fit from the 40-item version was undertaken with the previously documented four-factor 36-item and three-factor 29-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scales. The model fit indices of the three one-factor congeneric models with maximum likelihood analysis demonstrate that the 40-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale does not fit the data well. The best fitting model was the four-factor 36-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale followed by the three-factor 29-item models. The confirmatory factor analysis results did not support the overall construct validity of the original 40-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S137455
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2014.12.007
Abstract: In the healthcare context empathy is the cognitive ability to understand a patient's perspectives and experiences and to convey that understanding back to the patient. Some medical conditions are frequently stigmatised or otherwise detrimentally stereotyped with patients often describing healthcare practitioners as intolerant, prejudiced and discriminatory. The purpose of this study was to find how a group of paramedic students and nursing aramedic double-degree students regard these types of patients and to note any changes that may occur as those students continued through their education. The 11-questions, 6-point Likert scale version of the Medical Condition Regard Scale was used in this prospective cross-sectional longitudinal study. This study included paramedic students enrolled in first, second, third and fourth year of an undergraduate paramedic or paramedic/nursing program from Monash University. A total of 554 students participated. Statistically significant differences were found between double-degree and single-degree students (p<0.0001), year of course (p<0.0001) and gender (p=0.02) for patients presenting with substance abuse. Similar results were found for patients with intellectual disability and attempted suicide. No statistically significant results were found for acute mental illness. This study has demonstrated significant differences in empathy between paramedic and nursing aramedic double-degree students in regard to patients with these complex medical conditions. Paramedic/nursing students generally showed a positive change in empathy towards these complex patients by their third year of study however, they also showed some alarming drops in empathy between second and third year.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-01-2016
DOI: 10.3109/13561820.2015.1070132
Abstract: Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) continues to gain much momentum with recognition and evidence that improved communication and collaboration between healthcare workers leads to better delivery and access to care. The objective of this study was to examine the self-reported IPC among Australian paramedic undergraduate students over two years. A two-year cross-sectional study involving undergraduate paramedic students from multiple Australian Universities was undertaken. Students' IPC levels were measured using the Interdisciplinary Education Perception Scale (IEPS). Responses were collected from 1,264 students during the 2011 and 2012 academic years. During the study females tended to outnumber males enrolled in paramedic studies across all universities, which was consistent across 2011 and 2012 (overall, n = 748 or 59.2% and n = 516 or 40.8% for females and males, respectively). Factor results revealed mean = 23.63 (Competence/Autonomy), mean = 9.65 (Perceived need for Cooperation), and mean = 23.78 (Perception of Actual Cooperation). There were no differences in self-reported perceptions between students assessed in 2011 and 2012 for any of the three factors. The current study provides the first multi-institutional normative data for paramedic students for the IEPS within Australia. Initial findings tend to suggest that paramedic undergraduates are positive about the concept of IPC and their ability to work as part of a collaborative healthcare team.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2018.06.010
Abstract: Teaching has long been recognised as an important role for nurses. In addition, much has also been written about new graduates' transitions to professional practice. However, the role of new graduates in teaching is unclear, and at what point they are required to teach others as part of their practice. To explore the teaching activities undertaken by new nursing graduates, and their readiness for this role following a semester-long education subject in their undergraduate degrees. A qualitative descriptive design SETTINGS: All participants were undertaking graduate nurse programs and working in different hospitals across Melbourne, Australia. Five were working in public hospitals, and one in a private hospital. Six graduate nurses who had completed the education subject at one Australian university and were between four and six months into their graduate year program. Semi-structured interviews guided by key questions were conducted by telephone. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes emerged: expectations and the nature of teaching, nature of learners, and attitudes to teaching role. All participants were engaged in some teaching activity early in their graduate programs. This included students of nursing and other disciplines, and qualified staff, as well as patients and their families. Participants reported feeling more confident and better prepared for their roles having completed the education subject than those of their peers, educated at other universities, who had not covered such content. New graduates are required to teach others, both formally and informally, early after registration. This requirement of professional practice is assisted by the inclusion of an education subject embedded in the undergraduate nursing degree.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 07-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 09-09-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-10-2013
DOI: 10.1111/MEDU.12343
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.6.4.469
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-02-2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 31-05-2019
Abstract: Remote Indigenous Australians experience disproportionately poor cardio-metabolic health, which is largely underpinned by adverse dietary intake related to social determinants. Little evidence exists about the community environmental-level factors that shape diet quality in this geographically isolated population group. This study aimed to explore the modifiable environmental-level factors associated with the features of dietary intake that underpin cardio-metabolic disease risk in this population group. Community-level dietary intake data were estimated from weekly store sales data collected throughout 2012 and linked with concurrent social, built, and physical environmental dimension data for 13 remote Indigenous Australian communities in the Northern Territory. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate associations. At the community level, store sales of discretionary foods were lower in communities with greater distance to a neighbouring store (r = −0.45 (p 0.05)). Sales of sugar-sweetened beverages were lower in communities with higher levels of household crowding (r = −0.55 (p 0.05)), higher levels of Indigenous unemployment (r = −0.62 (p = 0.02)), and greater distance to neighbouring stores (r = −0.61 (p = 0.004)). Modifiable environmental-level factors may be associated with adverse diet quality in remote Indigenous Australian communities and further investigations of these factors should be considered when developing policies to improve dietary intake quality in geographically isolated populations.
Publisher: Irish College of Paramedics
Date: 05-2019
Abstract: span Non-technical attributes have been identified as important and desirable qualities for all paramedics. Despite this, there is currently little research exploring the assessment of non-technical attributes in paramedicine. Situational judgement tests (SJT) have been identified as a valid and reliable assessment of non-technical attributes in medical education, however, it appears there is no research exploring the use of SJTs in the field of paramedicine. This paper outlines the background information on SJTs, what they are and their successful implementation in medicine. Additionally, this paper identifies potential uses for SJTs in paramedicine including admission and mental health screening based of previous research in medical education. This paper concludes that SJTs could be utilised in the field of paramedicine to measure non-technical attributes. /span
Publisher: Inderscience Publishers
Date: 2021
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 13-05-2012
DOI: 10.5430/JNEP.V2N3P74
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-03-2017
DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2017.1286637
Abstract: Self-efficacy is an in idual's perception of their ability to be successful in a given endeavour and it has been shown to have an important role in successful university education and clinical performance of healthcare workers. This article examines the self-efficacy beliefs of undergraduate healthcare students (n = 388) for the skills required for interprofessional education and interprofessional collaboration. The students were enrolled at an Australian university from the disciplines of public health, social work, and paramedic practice. The Self-Efficacy for Interprofessional Experiential Learning (SEIEL) scale, which is a valid and reliable scale, was used to determine the self-reported perceptions of self-efficacy in this cohort. The 16-item scale was developed for use with medicine and other healthcare professional undergraduate students. Student t-tests were used to compare scores between males and females, with one-way ANOVAs used to explore SEIEL scores across disciplines and year level. A significant difference was found between genders for the scores on SEIEL subscale 2 "Interprofessional evaluation and feedback" (p = 0.01) with the male mean being 2.65 units higher (Cohen's d = 0.29). There was also a significant gender difference for the overall SEIEL scale (p = 0.029) with the male mean being 4.1 units higher (Cohen's d = 0.238). No significant gender differences were demonstrated for the subscale "Interprofessional interaction." Neither subscale demonstrated significant differences between healthcare disciplines or course year. Further investigation is required to explore the reasons for the outcomes of this study. With the increasing importance of interprofessional education and practice within healthcare, it would also appear reasonable to consider further research into the development and support of student self-efficacy for the skills required for interprofessional education and interprofessional collaboration within healthcare curricula.
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 28-08-2014
DOI: 10.5430/JNEP.V4N11P8
The “Ideal” Clinical Supervision Environment in Nursing and Allied Health
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.2147/JMDH.S239559
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-05-2021
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 27-10-2014
DOI: 10.5430/JNEP.V5N1P58
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESUSCITATION.2018.12.020
Abstract: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) precipitated by drug overdose (OD) are becoming an increasing public health problem in developed countries. Empirical data on the global incidence and outcomes are needed to guide preventive and treatment strategies. We conducted a systematic review using MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, All EBM Reviews and CINAHL to identify observational or interventional studies reporting the incidence or outcomes of adult OHCA precipitated by drug OD between 1990 and 2018. Pooled incidence rates per 100,000 person-years and survival outcomes were summarised using random-effects models. Twelve articles met the eligibility criteria, of which six were from North America, four from Europe and two from Asia. Only two studies reported the incidence of EMS-attended cases. The pooled incidence of EMS-treated OHCA was 1.4 cases per 100,000 person-years. The pooled rate of survival to hospital discharge and survival with favourable neurological outcome was 9% (95% CI: 6%, 12% I The incidence and survival outcomes of drug OD OHCA varies substantially across regions. Effective strategies designed to reduce incidence and improve survival outcomes are needed.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2016
Abstract: Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is used throughout all levels of healthcare education. Lack of formalised agreement on different PAL programmes may confuse the literature. Given the increasing interest in PAL as an education philosophy, the terms need clarification. The aim of this review is to 1) describe different PAL programmes, 2) clarify the terminology surrounding PAL, and 3) propose a simple pragmatic way of defining PAL programmes based on their design. A review of current PAL programmes within the healthcare setting was conducted. Each programme was scrutinised based on two aspects: the relationship between student and teacher, and the student to teacher ratio. The studies were then shown to fit exclusively into the novel proposed classification. The 34 programmes found, demonstrate a wide variety in terms used. We established six terms, which exclusively applied to the programmes. The relationship between student and teacher was categorised as peer-to-peer or near-peer. The student to teacher ratio suited three groupings, named intuitively 'Mentoring' (1:1 or 1:2), 'Tutoring' (1:3-10), and 'Didactic' (1:>10). From this, six novel terms - all under the heading of PAL - are suggested: 'Peer Mentoring', 'Peer Tutoring', 'Peer Didactic', 'Near-Peer Mentoring', 'Near-Peer Tutoring', and 'Near-Peer Didactic'. We suggest herein a simple pragmatic terminology to overcome ambiguous terminology. Academically, clear terms will allow effective and efficient research, ensuring furthering of the educational philosophy.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-05-2012
Publisher: World Journal of Emergency Medicine
Date: 2012
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 22-10-2010
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2010.2.10.79201
Abstract: The Australian health care system and delivery of health services is under increasing pressure. Therefore, preparing health care graduates for these expected changes requires careful alignment of graduate attributes to core components of academic curricula. The Australian paramedic discipline has seen a remarkable change in a number of areas over the past three decades including education, training, health care identity, and scope of clinical practice. However, the Australian paramedic discipline is currently in a tenuous position for a number of reasons: it is not registered or regulated nationally and university paramedic education programmes are not formally accredited. This has led to non-standardized curriculum standards and uncertainty whether graduates are meeting industry and health service needs. This article will discuss why graduate attributes are important in registration, regulation and curricula development, and how and why graduate attributes are integral in providing graduates with the employability skills expected by employers. While this paper focuses on the issues in Australia, many of these issues are also faced by the paramedic profession and higher education sector in the UK. Therefore, it should provide the readership with germane material in their quest for curriculum and graduate attribute renewal.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 03-02-2012
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2012.4.2.90
Abstract: The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines suggest rescuers deliver cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 ventilations (30:2) at a rate of 100 compressions per minute with a compression depth of 4-5 cm. Given this increase from the previous CPR cycle of 15:2, there is now also greater emphasis on pushing faster and deeper with minimal interruption. This has led to speculation surrounding rescuer fatigue and compression inefficiency. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the level of work intensity and fatigue among undergraduate students during simulated CPR, including the quality of chest compressions. Methods: this was an observational pilot study investigating second year undergraduate paramedic students’ fatigue levels and quality of chest compressions following 20 minutes of simulated CPR. Data were collected at baseline and after every 2 minutes until conclusion of twenty minutes. Measurements of work intensity and fatigue included heart rate, rating of perceived exertion (Borg), compression depth and compression frequency. Results: a total of 7 subjects participated (2 male, 5 female), with five students aged 21-25 years. Male subjects showed a significantly slower compression rate when compared to females (108.0 vs 125.6 chest compressions per minute, P=0.006). Heart rate was significantly higher than rest (prior to commencing CPR) after 14 minutes of CPR (P=0.045). Perceived exertion was significantly higher than at rest at 2, 6, 10, 14, and 18 minutes, (P .01). Conclusion: this pilot study suggests that high levels of fatigue and perceived exertion are present early when undertaking CPR in a controlled setting, with some fatigue attributed to the faster than recommended chest compression rates.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2023
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2005
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2022.101176
Abstract: It is immensely important that Saudi women become involved in the field of paramedicine in larger numbers however, anecdotally they continue to experience significant challenges that limit their opportunities for recruitment and deployment in the field. This study set out to explore working female paramedics' perceptions of challenges in their workplace in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This study utilised a descriptive qualitative approach. Fifteen Saudi female paramedics were recruited to attend one of four focus groups in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were assessed using thematic analysis. Three themes emerged from the focus groups that described the perceptions of Saudi female paramedics: personal factors, social factors and employment-related factors. They faced several challenges that could affect their family responsibilities, workplace duties and capacity to work in the field of paramedicine. Saudi society also challenged female paramedics, as the culture and traditions of the KSA limited their participation in the paramedicine workforce. Furthermore, they reported experiencing many employment issues related to recruitment to pre-hospital settings, resulting from organisational policies and procedures. This study investigated the perceptions held by a cohort of female Saudi paramedics of the personal and professional challenges they faced in the workplace in the KSA. The study findings and their implications for female paramedics suggest further research is required to understand the unique challenges they face and to develop various strategies to manage them.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.2147/OAEM.S53021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-06-2013
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12065
Abstract: The Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure, Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Instrument, and Clinical Learning Environment Inventory were completed by 548 undergraduate students (54.5% response rate) enrolled in eight health professional bachelor degree courses. Regression analysis was used to investigate the significant predictors of the Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Instrument with the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure and Clinical Learning Environment Inventory subscales as independent variables. The results indicated that the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure and Clinical Learning Environment Inventory Actual version subscale scores explained 44% of the total variance in the Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Instrument score. The Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure subscale Academic Self-Perception explained 1.1% of the variance in the Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Instrument score. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory Actual subscales accounted for the following variance percentages in the Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Instrument score: personalization, 1.1% satisfaction, 1.7% task orientation, 5.1% and innovation, 6.2%. Aspects of the clinical learning environment appear to be predictive of the effectiveness of the clinical teaching that students experience. Fieldwork educator performance might be a significant contributing factor toward student skill development and practitioner success.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2022.101174
Abstract: Paramedics must be situationally aware in order to avoid human error and protect themselves, their partner, their patient, and the public. Previous research has suggested that paramedics lack situational awareness (SA), possibly due to a lack of an organized approach, distraction, and a poor understanding of SA. There is no educational approach provided to paramedics that is known to improve their levels of SA. If such an approach were provided, it could possibly reduce human error and lead to improved outcomes. The aim of this study is to determine whether providing paramedics with a targeted educational approach, including aspects from crew resource management (CRM) such as sterile cockpit and Endsley's model for SA, can improve overall SA during emergency calls. A prospective, quasi-experimental before-and-after study was used, in which out-of hospital paramedics were observed during 911 emergency calls. Baseline SA was measured using the situational awareness global assessment technique (SAGAT). Paramedics were then given a targeted educational lesson focusing on elements of SA and CRM as well as a novel quick reference tool to utilize during 911 calls. Post intervention SA was then measured again, and before-and-after results were compared for difference of mean scores. The overall baseline SA was 62% increasing to 86% following the educational intervention. The Wilcoxon Ranked Sum was used to assess for statistically significant differences between mean SA performance in the same group of paramedics before and after the intervention. The increase in SA was found to be statistically significant where p = 0.011. A targeted educational approach focusing on CRM and a novel quick reference tool may increase SA levels of paramedics during 911 emergency calls. Further studies are needed with bigger cohorts. Paramedicine educational institutions and out-of-hospital agencies should consider implementing this targeted approach with their students and currently practicing providers.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.2147/PRBM.S96647
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-02-2011
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.18.924
Abstract: The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has overwhelmed healthcare systems and exposed healthcare providers (and their families) to a high risk of infection and death. This study aimed to assess the willingness of healthcare providers in Jordan to report for duty and provide care to COVID-19 patients. An online questionnaire was developed including questions about demographics, willingness to report to work and provide care to COVID-19 patients, and potential associated factors. A total of 253 participants completed the survey (mean age 33.8 years, 58.6% male). The s le included physicians (14.9%), nurses (61.1%) and paramedics (23%). Most participants (96.4%) were willing to come to work during the pandemic, although only 64.7% showed a willingness to provide care to COVID-19 patients. Being male (OR 3.21 95% CI: 1.75-5.90) or having adequate training on COVID-19 (OR 5.16 95% CI: 2.32-11.46) were the major predictors for willingness to care for COVID-19 patients, whereas concerns for family safety (OR 0.25 95% CI: 0.14-0.47) or lack of information about COVID-19 (OR 0.43 95% CI: 0.23-0.80) were the major predicting barriers for willingness to care for COVID-19 patients. Although most participants were willing to report for duty, less than two-thirds were willing to care for COVID-19 patients. Being male and receiving training are associated with willingness whereas concern for family is associated with less willingness to care for COVID-19 patients.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-01-2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-03-2012
DOI: 10.3109/13561820.2012.671384
Abstract: In order to improve efficiency and collaboration in healthcare service provision, it is recommended that students engage in interprofessional education that is, learning with, from and about professions other than one's own profession. Such endeavors are often impeded by pre-existing attitudes therefore, self-reporting scales such as the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) have often been used in studies to gauge perspectives. The original 19-item version of the RIPLS was completed by 418 undergraduate healthcare students from a large Australian University. A principal component analysis with a varimax rotation was first carried out followed by Rasch model analyses on the RIPLS data. A four-factor solution was produced by the initial factor analysis, which did not correspond to the original three-factor solution identified by the RIPLS authors. The subsequent Rasch analyses of the four-factor structure produced two misfitting items, and reconfirmed a four-factor solution. The 17-item four-factor RIPLS demonstrated a good fit to the Rasch model and exhibited good reliability and dimensionality. A four-factor RIPLS solution was identified and confirmed via two statistical approaches. Two items were found not to fit the new RIPLS four-factor structure and it is recommended that they be discarded. Further refinement of the RIPLS is recommended.
Publisher: Zenodo
Date: 2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.681
Abstract: The trauma experienced as a paramedic can have a devastating psychological impact on both professionals and students in training, and increases the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Paramedics are often placed in high-risk situations involving multiple or sustained trauma and also experience high levels of occupational stress, which can produce adverse psychological and physiological responses. Despite these risks, understanding trauma and its various manifestations in paramedicine has not been well documented. This narrative review describes the history and changes in diagnostic criteria, and contrasts the methods of measuring PTSD symptomology with the current criteria. PTSD was first defined in the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, third edition (DSM-III) in 1980, however the diagnostic criteria and associated measurement tools failed to reflect the repeated and vicarious traumatic events experienced by paramedics. Currently, the majority of the measurement tools used to assess post-traumatic stress are still aligned with superseded diagnostic criteria and many only classify the symptoms of PTSD as present or absent with little consideration given to symptom severity. Consequently, these existing measurements of PTSD are out dated and inefficient in their ability to identify and measure PTSD using the revised criteria. The development of a more specific measurement tool, which reflects the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria of trauma-related stressors within this population, will allow for a more comprehensive measurement of symptoms. Future research undertaken in this specific field will also help to inform education and training programs to assist with the negative impacts of trauma and aid in management and treatment of PTSD in paramedics.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-06-2019
Abstract: To assess the impact of prehospital 12-lead electrocardiography (PH ECG) on emergency medical service (EMS) delay in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), we systematically searched five online electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, Cochrane Library and CINAHL, between 1990 and August 2017. Controlled trials and observational studies comparing EMS time delays with and without PH ECG in STEMI patients were eligible. Two reviewers independently screened studies for eligibility, extracted data and appraised study quality. The primary outcome was the time elapsed between scene arrival and hospital arrival. The secondary outcomes were response time, scene time, transport time and emergency call-to-hospital arrival time. Random effects models were used to pool weighted mean differences in EMS delay. Seven moderate-quality studies (two controlled trials and five observational) involving 81 005 participants were included in the data synthesis. The primary treatment strategy was in-hospital thrombolysis and percutaneous coronary intervention in four and three studies, respectively. PH ECG was associated with a 7.0 min increase in scene arrival-to-hospital arrival time (three studies n = 80 628 95% CI 6.7-7.2 I
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 22-07-2009
Abstract: The accurate identification of lung sounds during chest auscultation is a skill commonly used by healthcare clinicians, including paramedics, when assessing a patient's respiratory status. It is a necessary skill as it enables confirmation of a patient's respiratory condition and guides the paramedic to a provisional diagnosis and the implementation of appropriate management. The object of this study was to identify if undergraduate paramedic students from two Australian universities were able to interpret a variety of lung sounds accurately. A prospective single-blinded observational study requiring 96 undergraduate paramedic students from two Australian universities to estimate the lung sounds of six audio files. The findings demonstrated variable accuracy in lung sound interpretation of the six audio files. The lung sound that contained a wheeze was most accurately interpreted, whereas coarse crackles were the least accurately interpreted. Monash University undergraduate paramedic students displayed similar lung sound interpretations to Charles Sturt University undergraduate paramedic students. In this study undergraduate paramedic students from two Australian universities were found to be inaccurate at interpreting a variety of common lung sounds. The study has highlighted that a greater emphasis needs to be given to lung sound interpretation in undergraduate paramedic education programmes.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S98462
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-08-2010
DOI: 10.1002/OTI.297
Abstract: Empathy is an important attribute for occupational therapists in establishing rapport and in better understanding their clients. However, empathy can be compromised by high workloads, personal stressors and pressures to demonstrate efficacy. Occupational therapists also work with patients from a variety of diagnostic groups. The objective of this study was to determine the extent of empathy and attitudes towards clients amongst undergraduate occupational therapy students at one Australian University. A cross-sectional study was undertaken using a written survey of the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy (JSPE) and the Medical Condition Regard Scale. Overall, a strong level of empathy was reported amongst students. Four medical conditions that occupational therapists work with (stroke, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and depression) were held in high regard. Substance abuse, however, was held in comparatively low regard. Overall, the year of study appeared to have no significant impact on the students' empathy. Despite having a lower reported empathy level than found in health professions from other studies using the JSPE, occupational therapy students were found to have a good level of empathy. Of concern, however, was the bias reported against the medical condition of substance abuse, highlighting that the there may be a need to reinforce that patients from this diagnostic group are equally deserving of quality care irrespective of their clinical condition. Recommendations for future research include completing a longitudinal study of occupational therapy students' empathy levels and investigating the empathy levels of occupational therapists working with different client groups. Limitations of the study include the convenience s ling of occupational therapy students enrolled at one university which limits the generalizability of the results to groups of participants with similar characteristics.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-10-2014
DOI: 10.3109/13561820.2014.962129
Abstract: This study was designed to develop a psychometrically sound instrument to measure attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration in health profession students and practitioners regardless of their professions and areas of practice. Based on a review of the literature a list of 27 items was generated, 12 faculty judged the face validity of the items, and 124 health profession faculty examined the content validity of the items. The preliminary version of the instrument was administered to 1976 health profession students in three universities (Thomas Jefferson University, n = 510 Midwestern University, n = 392 and Monash University, n = 1074). Twenty items that survived the psychometric scrutiny were included in the Jefferson Scale of Attitudes Toward Interprofessional Collaboration (JeffSATIC). Two constructs of "working relationships" and "accountability" emerged from factor analysis of the JeffSATIC. Cronbach's α coefficients for the JeffSATIC ranged from 0.84 to 0.90 in the three s les. Women obtained significantly higher JeffSATIC mean scores than men. Medical students obtained lower mean score on the JeffSATIC than most other health profession students at the same university. Psychometric support from a relatively large s le size of students in a variety of health profession programs in this multi-institutional study is encouraging which adds to the credibility of the JeffSATIC.
The Correlation between Mathematics Anxiety, Numerical Ability and Drug Calculation Ability of Paramedic Students: An Explanatory Mixed Method Study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2020
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S258223
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2016.12.010
Abstract: Near-peer learning involving students from the same course, but at different levels, has gained prominence in health professional education over recent years. At the authors' university, nursing and paramedic students engage in near-peer learning in clinical skills laboratories where junior students learn specific skills from senior students. Our observations indicated that beyond the skills teaching, unintended learning occurred repeatedly. The aim of this study was to examine near-peer learner and teacher experiences of participating in near-peer learning and to explore students' engagement beyond the skill being learnt. Separate focus group interviews were conducted with groups of peer learners and peer teachers from nursing and paramedics following near-peer teaching and learning sessions. In total, 26 students participated in one of four audio-recorded focus groups. Data were analysed thematically. A range of unintended learning experiences became evident, indicating the operation of hidden curriculum additional to that intended within the formal curriculum. Four main areas emerged and were focussed on junior students: identifying with their peers, the course and related expectations, clinical placements and managing difficult situations. Near-peer learning and teaching has been reported as having a range of positive outcomes, particularly for those engaged in the teaching. However, this study has highlighted that can also provide a range of benefits unique to junior students. More research is warranted to further examine this phenomena and ways to harness and extend such learning opportunities, as well as the nature of social and cognitive congruence.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 28-06-2019
DOI: 10.1136/HEARTJNL-2019-315034
Abstract: To evaluate emergency medical services (EMS) delays and their impact on time to treatment and mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We collected data on EMS time intervals from published studies across five electronic databases. The primary EMS interval was the time in minutes between first medical contact and arrival at hospital door (FMC-to-door time). Secondary intervals were other components of EMS delay. Weighted means were measured using random-effects models. Meta-regression was used to identify factors associated with EMS delays and to assess the impact of EMS delay on the proportion of patients treated within90 min and mortality. Two independent reviewers included 100 studies (125 343 patients) conducted in 20 countries. The weighted mean FMC-to-door time was 41 min (n=101 646 95% CI 39 to 43, range 21–88). However, substantial heterogeneity was observed with each interval, which could be explained by region and urban classification, distance to hospital and method of ECG interpretation. In a meta-regression adjusted for door-to-balloon time, a 10 min increase in FMC-to-door time was associated with a 10.6% (95% CI 7.6% to 13.5% p .001) reduction in the proportion of patients treated within 90 min. Shorter EMS delay was significantly associated with lower short-term mortality in patients receiving prehospital thrombolysis (p=0.018). EMS delays account for half of the total system delay in STEMI. There is a fourfold global variation in EMS delays, which are not completely explained by differences in system characteristics. Reducing unexplained variation could yield improvements in the time to treatment and outcome of STEMI patients. CRD42017074118.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2015.06.002
Abstract: To determine the elements of quality clinical and field placements through the eyes of paramedic instructors. Qualitative study. Two large paramedic services in two countries where the entry to practice qualification for paramedics has been set at the Bachelors degree level. Fifteen purposively selected paramedic instructors were invited to voluntarily participate. The criterion for inclusion was that they had supervised at least one university paramedicine student on a field placement. Recruitment ceased when saturation was reached. Face to face semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants who were asked their views and expectations of paramedicine student clinical and field placements. Inductive thematic analysis of the transcripts was completed using Nvivo software. The elements of quality clinical and field placements from the perspective of paramedic instructors were identified. With no agreed clinical and field placement paramedicine standards in the countries studied there is variation in the focus of placements, preferred settings, and expectations. Vocationally trained paramedics favoured paramedic service placements, whilst university educated paramedics see benefits in placements in more erse settings. Paramedic services and universities need to collaboratively address the variation in paramedicine university student clinical and field placements. Standards need to be developed that address the purpose of placements, expectations of students and instructors, and be scaffolded across the education spectrum from undergraduate student to graduate paramedic to instructor.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S58094
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-10-2016
DOI: 10.1111/MEDU.13108
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in women worldwide. Numerous health organisations have called for increased education for health care practitioners who encounter IPV patients and the first clinical guidelines for health services responding to IPV were recently published. This renewed focus has created a need to examine the current evidence for IPV education so that it may inform the next generation of educational interventions. This study was designed to examine the effects of IPV educational interventions on the knowledge, attitudes, skills and behaviours of allied health care practitioners (AHCPs). We conducted a systematic search of multiple databases up to the end of May 2015. We selected studies that included IPV educational interventions for AHCPs and that measured knowledge, attitude, skill or behavioural outcomes. Studies were evaluated based on methodological quality, education context and outcome measurement. We found 2757 articles from which 18 were selected for inclusion. Study participants included nurses, dentists, social workers and paramedics. Educational interventions ranged widely in length, delivery format and topics covered. Findings indicate that improvements in some knowledge, attitudes, skills and behaviours are associated with education, although the lack of high-quality studies indicates that conclusions should be treated with caution. Future studies should be conducted using rigorous methodology and validated instruments to measure evidence-based outcomes and should target a wider range of AHCPs. Recommendations are provided on education content and delivery, study methodology and outcome measurement based on insights gained from selected studies.
Publisher: Sciedu Press
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.5430/JNEP.V3N1P51
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2006
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2017
Abstract: The Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) Degree (BN/BEH-P) is a four-year on-c us double degree, combining essential units from both the accredited Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Emergency Health courses. Graduates of this course are expected to be well equipped to manage the complexity of emergency care out-of-hospital, in-hospital and at the interface of these settings. The aim of this study was to explore student views of their preparation and intentions towards future practice and the alignment with course objectives. A cross-sectional study was employed with a s le of first, second, third and fourth year undergraduate students of the BN/BEH-P. The results were mapped to course objectives by researchers. Written responses varied considerably making generalisations difficult however, some common themes did emerge such as a need for greater flexibility in course delivery options, not enough simulation, a need for more clinical placements and better communication between the two schools. The level of satisfaction with course content and delivery was high. Timetabling problems and the allocation of clinical placements were a source of concern for many students and were found to be common to double degrees in general. There was alignment between student perspectives of course delivery with half of eight course objectives, but not in areas such as ethics, evidence based practice, professional communication and cultural values in practice. The findings are important for students, universities and health services, informing a pedagogical alignment between student preparation and expectations. The findings are expected to provide valuable insight into the student view of undergraduate interprofessional education, how it shapes their intentions for future practice and how students and other stakeholders know if they will receive what is offered and funded.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.11.5.59
Abstract: Over 9,500 people die annually in Australia from sudden cardiac arrest, with strong evidence suggesting early high quality CPR and early counter shock being paramount for improving survival from cardiac arrest. It has also been shown that first responder programs have been able to reduce response times and increase survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The objective of this study was to examine data from the first seven years of an Australian out-of-hospital cardiac arrest first responder program where fire fighters provided basic life support. This study was a retrospective cohort study of all cardiac arrests attended by the Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board (MFESB) as part of the Emergency Medical Response program over a seven-year period in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The MFESB attended 4,450 cardiac arrests. The majority of patients presented in asystole 669 (63.7%) with just 243 (23.1%) presenting in a shockable rhythm. The majority of patients in cardiac arrest were males (64.2%) and the mean age of the patients was 67.5 years. The MFESB median response time during the study period was 5.7 minutes (IQR 2.25 minutes), range of 0.15 minutes to 31.7 minutes, which remained stable over the seven years. Patients spent a median time of 4.6 minutes (0.02 seconds to 36.5 minutes) in the care of fire fighters prior to the arrival of EMS. The rhythm on handover to paramedics was asystole in 787 (75.1%) cases with no shockable rhythms. One in three (31.3%) patients received bystander CPR, with a significant rise in the rate of bystander CPR occurring over the last two years. This study demonstrated acceptable response times to cardiac arrests and a low bystander CPR rate prior to arrival of the MFESB. The incidence of a shockable rhythm on arrival of the MFESB was low with the main rhythm being asystole. The main rhythm on handover to paramedics was asystole with non-shockable rhythms. Further research is required to determine the effect on patient outcomes.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.18.814
Abstract: Maths anxiety is defined as feelings of tension that interfere with dealing with numbers and mathematical problems. Self-efficacy, which is related to maths anxiety, can be defined as perceptions of one's abilities to math problems, tasks and math-related course work. This study aimed to investigate the effect of gender, age and year level on maths anxiety and self-efficacy and to study the relationship between self-efficacy and maths anxiety among paramedic students. A cross-sectional study of paramedic students at Monash University in Victoria was conducted. Participants completed a 15-minute paper-based questionnaire which is composed of Maths Anxiety Rating Scale – Revised (MARS-R),) the Maths Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) and demographic information. The questionnaires were completed and returned by 344 students. (81.3% return rate). The mean score for the MARS-R was 25.71 (SD=8.80) and for the MSES was 125.59 (SD=29.55). Females had higher maths anxiety levels (M=26.83, SD=9.00) than males (M=23.67, SD=8.26) and lower self-efficacy (M=119.59, SD=29.30) than males (M=135.73, SD=27.39). There was a significant negative relationship between MARS-R and MSES levels. Multiple linear regression indicated that maths self-efficacy (beta = -0.626, p .001) made the strongest contribution to maths anxiety levels. There was a significant negative relationship between maths anxiety and self-efficacy levels reported by the paramedic student cohort. Gender plays an integral part in determining maths anxiety and self-efficacy level. To improve maths performance and reduce anxiety during calculation tasks, such as dose determinations, targeted education should be developed to improve maths self-efficacy.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-11-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X12001562
Abstract: Heart failure poses a significant burden of disease, resulting in 2,658 Australian deaths in 2008, and listed as an associated cause of death in a further 14,466 cases. Common in the hospital setting, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a non-invasive ventilation technique used to prevent airway collapse and manage acute pulmonary edema (APO). In the hospital setting, CPAP has been known to decrease the need for endotracheal intubation in patients with APO. Therefore the objective of this literature review was to identify the effectiveness of CPAP therapy in the prehospital environment. A review of selected electronic medical databases (Cochrane, Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL) was conducted from their commencement date through the end of May 2012. Inclusion criterion was any study type reporting the use of CPAP therapy in the prehospital environment, specifically in the treatment of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema. References of relevant articles were also reviewed. The literature search located 1,253 articles, 12 of which met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies found that the use of CPAP therapy in the prehospital environment is associated with reduced short-term mortality as well as reduced rates of endotracheal intubation. Continuous positive airway pressure therapy was also shown to improve patient vital signs during prehospital transport and reduce myocardial damage. The studies conducted of prehospital use of CPAP to manage APO have all demonstrated improvement in patient outcomes in the short term. Available evidence suggests that the use of CPAP therapy in the prehospital environment may be beneficial to patients with acute pulmonary edema as it can potentially decrease the need for endotracheal intubation, improve vital signs during transport to hospital, and improve short-term mortality. Williams B , Boyle M , Robertson N , Giddings C . When pressure is positive: a literature review of the prehospital use of continuous positive airway pressure . Prehosp Disaster Med. 2013 28 ( 1 ): 1 - 10 .
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2009
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 22-11-2012
DOI: 10.1136/EMERMED-2011-200080
Abstract: Many studies over the past decade have investigated delaying initial defibrillation to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as it has been associated with increased rates of restoration of spontaneous circulation and/or survival. Since 2006, a number of studies have investigated these procedures. The objective of this study was to undertake a literature review examining the commencement of CPR before defibrillation in the out-of-hospital setting. A literature review was undertaken using the electronic medical databases Ovid Medline, EMBASE, CINHAL Plus, Cochrane Systematic Review and Meditext, from their commencement to the end of June 2011. Keywords used in the search included: CPR, defibrillation, ventricular fibrillation, VF, EMS, EMT, paramedic, emergency medical service, emergency medical technician, prehospital, out-of-hospital and ambulance. References of relevant articles were also reviewed. Of the 3079 articles located, 10 met the inclusion criteria. The results of these studies showed conflicting results. All retrospective studies (n=6) indicated a benefit in performing pre-shock CPR on patients with ventricular fibrillation for durations between 90 and 180 s. Conversely, all randomised controlled trials demonstrated no benefit from providing CPR before defibrillation compared with immediate defibrillation for return of spontaneous circulation, neurological outcome and/or survival to hospital discharge. However, none of the studies reported evidence that CPR before defibrillation is harmful. Conflicting evidence remains regarding the benefit of CPR before defibrillation. The establishment of a consistent timeframe of chest compressions before defibrillation in the out-of-hospital setting will provide uniformity in standards in clinical practice and education and training.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-02-2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S53085
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S57569
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S13643-019-1240-0
Abstract: Empathy is an important characteristic to possess for healthcare professionals. It has been found to improve communication between professionals and patients and to improve clinical health outcomes. The Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) was developed to measure this quality and has been used extensively, and psychometrically appraised, with a variety of cohorts and in different cultural environments. However, no study has been undertaken to systematically examine the methodological quality of studies which have assessed psychometric factors of the JSE. This systematic review will examine the quality of published papers that have reported on psychometric factors of the JSE. A systematic review of studies which report on the psychometric properties of the JSE will be conducted. We will use a predefined search strategy to identify studies meeting the following eligibility criteria: original data is reported on for at least one of the psychometric measurement properties described in the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist, examines the JSE in a healthcare cohort (using the student, physician or health profession versions of the JSE), and is published from January 2001 and in the English language. Conference abstracts, editorials and grey literature will be excluded. Six electronic databases (Medline, EMBASE, PsychInfo, PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL) will be systematically searched for articles meeting these criteria and studies will be assessed for eligibility by two review authors. The methodological quality of included papers will be examined using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist. A narrative description of the findings will be presented along with summary tables. Recommendations for use of the JSE with various cohorts and circumstances will be offered which may inform future research in this field. PROSPERO CRD42018111412
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 02-03-2021
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2021.13.3.105
Abstract: In Australia, accrediting body competencies reflect paramedic professional practice rather than informing curriculum development for higher education institutions. This article will investigate frameworks that can be used to design curriculum development. An initial focused discourse analysis of the grey literature was undertaken followed by a systematic review. 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. The current and future scope in paramedicine will define the development of curricula, especially in relation to a more primary-focused healthcare model. 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.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1017/S1463423621000402
Abstract: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander holistic health represents the interconnection of social, emotional, spiritual and cultural factors on health and well-being. Social factors (education, employment, housing, transport, food and financial security) are internationally described and recognised as the social determinants of health. The social determinants of health are estimated to contribute to 34% of the overall burden of disease experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Primary health care services currently ‘do what it takes’ to address social and emotional well-being needs, including the social determinants of health, and require culturally relevant tools and processes for implementing coordinated and holistic responses. Drawing upon a research-setting pilot program, this manuscript outlines key elements encapsulating a strengths-based approach aimed at addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander holistic social and emotional well-being. The Cultural Pathways Program is a response to community identified needs, designed and led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and informed by holistic views of health. The program aims to identify holistic needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the starting point to act on the social determinants of health. Facilitators implement strengths-based practice to identify social and cultural needs (e.g. cultural and community connection, food and financial security, housing, mental health, transport), engage in a goal setting process and broker connections with social and health services. An integrated culturally appropriate clinical supervision model enhances delivery of the program through reflective practice and shared decision making. These embedded approaches enable continuous review and improvement from a program and participant perspective. A developmental evaluation underpins program implementation and the proposed culturally relevant elements could be further tailored for delivery within primary health care services as part of routine care to strengthen systematic identification and response to social and emotional well-being needs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-10-2015
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-07-2016
DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2016.1204037
Abstract: This study aims to determine the number and reasons for emergency paramedic attendances to older adults in Victoria, Australia. A second aim is to investigate the prevalence of psychosocial factors that may contribute to older patients requiring emergency paramedic attendance. This descriptive retrospective study analyzed all emergency paramedic attendances to patients aged 65 or older between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2014 in Victoria, Australia. Fully de-identified data were extracted from the Ambulance Victoria Data Warehouse. Data included demographic and clinical variables such as age, gender, case nature (cause), past history, management and transportation, paramedic final assessment (diagnosis), social situation, past history as well as free text case descriptions. A total of 596,579 patients 65 years or older were attended by emergency paramedics during the study period. This accounted for 24.1% of Ambulance Victoria workload during that period. The mean (SD) age of patients was 79.8(8.2). The majority (70.7%) of cases involved patients at private residences. The most common final assessments were pain (18.7%), cardiac problem (7.2%), infection (6.9%), trauma (6.7%), other/unknown (6.4%), and respiratory problem (5.7%). The vast majority of patients were transported to hospital (82.8%). Psychosocial issues were evident in the free text case descriptions of more than 91,000 cases. Paramedics attended almost 600,000 patients 65 years and older during the study period. Patients suffered from conditions including, pain, trauma, infections, cardiac complaints, and respiratory problems. Free text case descriptions provided more detail and insight into the reasons for emergency paramedic attendance. Psychosocial problems were far more prevalent than indicated by the "final assessment" field. Further research is required to determine the reasons and implications of this.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.5.3.425
Abstract: 1. To review and analyse the literature regarding out-of-hospital external chest compressions (ECC) in severe asthma and status asthmaticus. 2. To compare which ambulance services in Australia and New Zealand actively use ECC in their clinical practice guidelines for severe asthma. Literature review using a variety of medical databases including, Medline, AMED, ProQuest, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus and Cochrane Library from 1950 to present. The following keywords were used in the search strategy, ambulance, asthma, emergency medical technicians, external chest compression, external chest pressure, lateral chest compression, lateral chest pressure, out-of-hospital, paramedic, prehospital, status asthmaticus and thoracic compression. A review of Australian and New Zealand ambulance service clinical practice guidelines was also undertaken comparing the current out-of-hospital guidelines use of ECC. A total of nine papers were located with low levels of evidence supporting the use of ECC. Only two papers directly discussed ECC in the context of out-of-hospital care. Three of the eight Australian ambulance services actively use ECC in their clinical practice guidelines. High level evidence was not found supporting the use of ECC in severe asthma or status asthmaticus. Anecdotal opinions and case reports generally have supported its use in dynamic hyperinflation settings. Further research is required before recommendations can be made.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-04-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJ.2017.02.008
Abstract: Air medical transport is important for the transfer of patients in the prehospital and interhospital environment. Few studies have described the services provided by fixed wing ambulances or the broader clinical profiles of patients they transport. Such information may be useful for the planning and allocation of resources, assistance with training, and refining clinical protocols. We sought to describe the characteristics of patients transported by fixed wing aircraft at Air Ambulance Victoria (AAV) and the service AAV provides in Victoria, Australia. A retrospective data review of patients transported by AAV fixed wing aircraft between January 1, 2011, and June 30, 2015, was performed. Data were sourced from the Ambulance Victoria data warehouse. Retrievals involving physicians were excluded. A total of 16,579 patients were transported during the study period, with a median age of 66 years. Most patients were male (58.7%), and cardiovascular/hematologic conditions (27.2%) were most common. Overall, 51.7% of cases were prebooked routine transfers, 47.4% were interhospital routine transfers, and 0.9% were primary responses. Caseloads were largest in the regions furthest from the capital city. The AAV fixed wing service in Victoria enables regional and remote patients to be transported to definitive care without major disruption to ground ambulances.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.19.855
Abstract: Non-technical skills (NTS) are a causative factor in many adverse events in healthcare. Although this is the case, NTS have been explored in the paramedic literature in isolation, with no current list of desirable paramedic NTS within the literature. This study aims to gather consensus opinions on which NTS are considered important for an operational paramedic. A modified Delphi technique was utilised to achieve the study aim. Participants were required to rate each NTS on a ten-point Likert scale. For an NTS to reach a consensus, it was required to be rated within two Likert scale points of the mode score by 80% of participants. There were 17 participants in the Delphi study (n=17). The study ran for a total of three rounds, and 33 of 35 NTS reached consensus. The top five NTS were communication, problem-solving, situational awareness, professionalism, and interpersonal skills. Two NTS did not reach consensus these were empathy and cognitive offloading. These two did not reach consensus despite being rated six or higher by all participants. The results of this Delphi study have created the first expert-based list of important NTS for a paramedic. This will have significant implications for the paramedic field as we now have a foundation of which NTS is vital for a paramedic to complete their duties. These results can begin to form the foundation of a future paramedic behavioural marker systems will improve paramedic performance and ultimately lead to improved patient safety.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.8.1.107
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 21-05-2012
Abstract: The Listening Style Profile (LSP-16) measures people's self-reported preferences for four listening styles that we habitually use when we listen. Research in this area is important for health care education since listening is a fundamental skill in all the health care professions. The aim of this study was to investigate the factor structure of the LSP-16's subscales when completed by a group of respondents from a large Australian university. Data from the LSP-16 completed by 860 undergraduate health science students enrolled in eight different courses (response rate of 59%) were analyzed using maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis. The model fit indices of the maximum likelihood analysis demonstrate that the resultant models did not fit the data well. One item exhibited model misfit and reliability estimates and factor loadings were modest. The confirmatory factor analysis results did not support the overall latent factor structure of the LSP-16 as initially proposed by its authors. Further work is required to examine the underlying construct validity and other measurement properties of the LSP-16.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2020
DOI: 10.2147/JMDH.S254922
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.6.1.444
Abstract: Perpetual debate continues regarding the amount of oxygen that should delivered by paramedics to patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A number of studies argue that providing excessive levels of oxygen in COPD patients results in hypercapnic respiratory failure. Despite the prevalence of COPD there continues to be a paucity of prehospital literature on this topic. To review and analyse the literature regarding prehospital administration of oxygen therapy in patients with COPD. Literature review using a variety of medical databases including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, CINAHL and PubMed. The following MeSH terms were used in the search: lung diseases, obstructive emergency medical services respiratory therapy. Using exclusion and inclusion criteria a total of 9 papers were located. There is a lack of high quality evidence to adequately address the issue of oxygen prescription to COPD patients in the prehospital setting. It is recommended that oxygen flow is titrated in COPD patients to maintain SpO 2 between 90-92%. There is a need for randomised controlled trials in the prehospital setting to address the issue regarding oxygen prescription for COPD patients. Oxygen can be titrated using pulse oximetry to minimize complications of hypoxia and the risk of hypercapnia from excessively high oxygen concentration.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.2147/PRBM.S108036
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESUSCITATION.2019.05.020
Abstract: Paediatric traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a rare event with few survivors. We examined long-term trends in the incidence and outcomes of paediatric traumatic OHCA and explored the frequency and timing of intra-arrest interventions. We retrospectively analysed data from the Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry for cases involving traumatic OHCA in patients aged ≤16 years arresting between January 2000 to December 2017. Trends were assessed using linear regression and a non-parametric test for trend. A total of 292 cases were attended by emergency medical services (EMS), of which 166 (56.9%) received an attempted resuscitation. The overall incidence of EMS-attended cases was 1.4 cases per 100,000 person-years, with no significant changes over time. Unadjusted outcomes also remained unchanged, with 23.5% achieving return of spontaneous circulation and 3.7% surviving to hospital discharge. The frequency of trauma-specific interventions increased between 2000-2005 and 2012-2017, including needle thoracostomy from 10.5% to 51.0% (p trend <0.001), crystalloid administration from 31.6% to 54.9% (p trend = 0.004) and blood administration from 0.0% to 6.3% (p trend = 0.01). The median time from emergency call to the delivery of interventions were: 12.9 min (IQR: 8.5, 20.0) for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 19.7 min (IQR: 10.7, 39.6) for external haemorrhage control, 29.8 min (IQR: 22.0, 35.4) for crystalloid administration and 31.5 min (IQR: 21.0, 38.0) for needle thoracostomy. The incidence and outcomes of paediatric traumatic OHCA remained unchanged over an 18 year period. Early correction of reversible causes by reducing delays to the delivery of trauma-specific interventions may yield additional survivors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2017.07.016
Abstract: Simulation-based learning is an approach recommended for teaching undergraduate health professionals. There is a scarcity of research around interprofessional simulation training for pre-professional students in obstetric emergencies that occur prior to arrival at the maternity ward. The primary aims of the study were to examine whether an interprofessional team-based simulated birth scenario would improve undergraduate paramedic, nursing, and midwifery students' self-efficacy scores and clinical knowledge when managing birth in an unplanned location. The secondary aim was to assess students' satisfaction with the newly developed interprofessional simulation. Quasi-experimental descriptive study with repeated measures. Simulated hospital emergency department. Final year undergraduate paramedic, nursing, and midwifery students. Interprofessional teams of five students managed a simulated unplanned vaginal birth, followed by debriefing. Students completed a satisfaction with simulation survey. Serial surveys of clinical knowledge and self-efficacy were conducted at three time points. Twenty-four students participated in one of five simulation scenarios. Overall, students' self-efficacy and confidence in ability to achieve a successful birth outcome was significantly improved at one month (p<0.001) with a magnitude of increase (effect) of 40% (r=0.71) and remained so after a further three months. Clinical knowledge was significantly increased in only one of three student groups: nursing (p=0.04 r=0.311). Students' satisfaction with the simulation experience was high (M=4.65/5). Results from this study indicate that an interprofessional simulation of a birth in an unplanned setting can improve undergraduate paramedic, nursing and midwifery students' confidence working in an interprofessional team. There was a significant improvement in clinical knowledge of the nursing students (who had least content about managing birth in their program). All students were highly satisfied with the interprofessional simulation experience simulation.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.7.4.190
Abstract: Provision of adequate chest compressions remains a standard of care for optimal outcome in cardiopulmonary arrest. Given the recent changes to CPR rates and a greater emphasis on pushing faster and deeper, this has raised questions surrounding rescuer fatigue and efficacy of compressions. While a body of work has been undertaken on previous CPR rates and associated fatigue levels, there is a shortage of literature on the latest CPR rates and associated rescuer fatigue in the hospital and prehospital settings. The objective of this paper was to determine the extent of fatigue associated with CPR in both the hospital and prehospital settings. A review of the literature using a variety of medical databases, including Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL electronic databases. The following MeSH terms were used in the search: CPR fatigue, chest compression, compression depth, out of hospital, in-hospital, prehospital, emergency medical services. 21 articles met the inclusion criteria, with three of these papers being from the prehospital setting. Currently, there is low level evidence determining the most appropriate length of time in providing quality chest compression before rescuer fatigue occurs. Overall chest compressions were shallower at least half of the time due to fatigue, and the mean compression rate was found to be higher than recommended. The findings of this study suggest that the quality of chest compressions deteriorates soon after commencing CPR, and that high quality prehospital studies are lacking.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.JFLM.2014.09.008
Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a common occurrence in Australian society and has far reaching health, social and economic impacts, particularly for females who are the most common victims. It is theorised that paramedics frequently encounter IPV in the field and in some cases are the only agency which deal with IPV victims in the out-of-hospital setting. Thus paramedics have a unique opportunity to increase discovery, treatment and reporting, however there is little formal training in managing IPV for most Australian paramedics. We evaluated the level of basic knowledge as well as self-reported preparedness and frequency of encountering IPV in a selection of 50 Australian paramedics using a cross-sectional descriptive study design with a paper-based questionnaire. Ninety percent of the paramedics reported encountering at least 1 case of suspected IPV in the last year, with the average number of cases being 3.66. Only 22% reported that they felt confident managing IPV cases. Sixty six percent of participants were unaware there is no mandatory reporting of IPV in their region. The vast majority of participants stated that they felt additional education and training would be most helpful to improving their ability to manage IPV cases. Participants had a poor knowledge and poor preparedness for IPV prior to undertaking a targeted education session. There is an urgent need for additional research of the needs and best methods to educate and train paramedics to appropriately respond to IPV cases.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.18.906
Abstract: Lecture absenteeism is a widespread issue and has been reported for a large range of university disciplines. The aim of this study was to describe face-to-face lecture attendance within a Bachelor of Paramedicine cohort at a large Australian university and explore associated factors. A sequential mixed method study was undertaken using lecture attendance counts, a cross-sectional questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Attendance was recorded at four time points throughout one semester. The Lecture Attendance Scale, a standardised 34-item questionnaire with a 7-point Likert rating scale, was used to examine reasons behind students’ choice to attend lectures or not, followed by further exploration via semi-structured interviews. Lecture attendance ranged from 30% to 76%, with a mean of 49.2%. On analysis of the questionnaire, eight factors were identified, and these were largely supported by the interview data. High levels of lecture attendance were not observed. This study suggests that the decision to attend a lecture can be complex and is influenced by a range of student and organisation-related factors. Understanding and utilising this information to modify and improve healthcare curricula delivery is vital, especially where there may be an association between attendance and the development of clinical skills, and professional attitudes and qualities. This is especially important in healthcare education in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era where the value of in-person education will continue to be examined.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-11-2020
DOI: 10.1111/JEP.13293
Abstract: Empathic communication in health care may enhance positive patient and health care professional relationships, patient satisfaction and can buffer professional burnout. The Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) was developed based on the need to quantitatively measure levels of empathy, particularly in health care settings. Evaluating the utility of empathy is underpinned by the psychometric rigour of the instruments used to measure it. The aim of this study was to critically evaluate the current evidence on the measurement properties of the JSE. Two reviewers independently searched six databases for papers describing psychometric assessment of the JSE from January 2000 to July 2018 inclusive. The studies were independently assessed for methodological quality using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist. The search strategy resulted in the retrieval of 985 papers, of which 59 were included in this study. The majority of papers reported on measures of structural validity and internal consistency, and it was in these areas which the highest quality of reporting was demonstrated. Additionally, there was a generally very good quality in reporting of convergent validity. Reliability, measurement error, cross-cultural validity were reported with less than optimum quality. The JSE demonstrates robust structural validity, internal consistency, and convergent validity. These measurement properties are generally well reported in the literature in studies of good methodological quality, and thus may be interpreted with relative confidence when used in empathy research. However, current evidence is limited for the properties of reliability, measurement error, and cross-cultural validity. Thus, a degree of caution should be considered in drawing conclusions when using the JSE with regard to these properties. It is recommended that future examinations of the JSE refer to the COSMIN guidelines to ensure complete and well-reported psychometric data are included.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-10-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 22-04-2009
Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the usability of DVD simulations, the impact on student learning satisfaction and the potential for using DVD simulations to reduce the clinical placement burden on the current healthcare system. The clinical DVD simulations were underpinned by interprofessional educational principles that supported clinical placements for paramedic students. Eleven DVD simulations were developed by academic staff members from Monash University with input and feedback from a team of healthcare professionals. Students (N = 97) from the Bachelor of Emergency Health at Monash University viewed the DVD simulations. Students' perceptions, attitudes and thoughts about the clinical relevance of the simulations were assessed by completing a standardised self-report 7-point Likert scale questionnaire (7 indicating the highest satisfaction score). Qualitative data assessing if and how the DVD simulations had influenced paramedic students' clinical placement learning experiences were also collected via two focus groups (n = 6). Overall, paramedic students positively perceived the DVD simulations with relation to learning satisfaction (mean (SD) 5.14 (1.14), 95% CI 4.91 to 5.37) and information processing quality (mean (SD) 5.50 (0.83), 95% CI 5.33 to 5.67). The simulations maintained students' attention and concentration (mean (SD) 4.35 (0.95), 95% CI 4.15 to 4.54) and provided clinical authenticity and relevance to practice (mean (SD) 4.27 (0.65), 95% CI 4.14 to 4.40). A number of themes emerged from the focus group data including the impact on employment, greater appreciation of healthcare teamwork and notion of interdisciplinary teamwork, the fact that DVD simulations have the capacity to replace some clinical placement rotations and should be integrated into standard curriculum, and that varying amounts of learning wastage occur during clinical placements. DVD simulations with an interprofessional education focus were developed. Paramedic students reported the simulations as being educationally, professionally and clinically relevant. The students also identified some aspects of current clinical placements that may be replaced by using DVD simulations. The cost benefit of using interprofessional DVD simulations to supplement and replace certain clinical placement rotations should be investigated further.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2021
DOI: 10.2147/OAEM.S291904
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.11.4.1
Abstract: Interpersonal communication skills are essential to the healthcare practitioner aiding in high quality, effective and safe clinical practice. Effective communication exerts a positive influence on the patient's physical and emotional status resulting in better patient outcomes and satisfaction. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, self-assessment of interpersonal communication skills can be used as an intervention tool to inform future curriculum renewal. The objective of this study was to identify paramedic students’ perceptions of their interpersonal communication competence. Second year paramedic students from Monash University (Victoria) were invited to participate in a survey that asked them to record perceptions of their interpersonal communication skills using the Interpersonal Communication Competence Scale (ICCS). The ICCS is a 30-item unipolar questionnaire using a Likert scale ranging from 1 (almost never) to 5 (almost always). Mean and standard deviations (SD) were used to report results. Fifty-six second year paramedic students participated in the study. Participants were predominantly aged less than 25 years (85.7%) and male n=36 (64.3%). Students reported ‘often’ or ‘almost always’ for the items: ‘I put myself in others’ shoes’, n=46 (82%), mean=3.98 (SD 0.59) and, ‘I let others know that I understand what they say’, n=45 (80%), mean=3.96 (SD 0.66). Students reported ‘sometimes’, ‘often’ or ‘almost always’, for the items: ‘I have trouble convincing others to do what I want them to do’, n=55 (98%), mean=3.5 (SD 0.63) and, ‘My mind wanders during conversations’, n=41 (73%), mean=3.05 (SD 0.88). Preliminary results suggest that student paramedics self-report their interpersonal communication skills highly apart from areas related to assertiveness and listening skills. These results could be indicative of student age, personality or experience level and warrant further research with larger s le sizes.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 02-09-2011
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2011.3.9.504
Abstract: There is a need to identify if current undergraduate paramedic students have the appropriate attributes to ensure they are effective listeners and communicators and whether additional or specific elements need to be added to the paramedic curriculum. The objective of this study was to identify the listening and communication style preferences of undergraduate paramedic students at a major Australian university. Methods: a cross-sectional study using paper-based versions of the listening styles profile (LSP) and the communication styles measure (CSM) were administered to a cohort of students enrolled in the Bachelor of emergency health (paramedic). Ethics approval was granted. Results: students reported a preference for the people listening style and to a lesser extent, the content listening style. Consistent with this, they also reported a preference for the friendly and attentive communication styles and exhibited little preference for the dominant and contentious communication styles. Conclusion: the students’ self-reported preferences are well suited for the role of paramedic and it is likely that a disposition towards these styles of listening and communication also lead these people to enrol in a paramedic course given their preferences are associated with an interest and concern for the welfare of others.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-05-2009
Abstract: Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) (BEH) students at Monash University undertake clinical placements to assist with the transition from student to novice paramedic. Anecdotally, students report a lack of opportunity to practise their clinical skills whilst on placements. The barriers to participation and the theory-practice gap have not been previously documented in Australian paramedic literature. The purpose of this study was to investigate the theory-practice gap for paramedic students by linking education and skill level to case exposure and skills praxis during clinical placements. A cross-sectional retrospective study using a convenience s le of second and third year BEH undergraduate students. Ethics approval was granted. Eighty four second and third year BEH students participated. 59.5% were female (n = 50), 40.5% were male (n = 34). Overall, students most commonly reported exposure to cardiac and respiratory cases and were satisfied with the number of cases encountered during placement. However, over half (n = 46) reported being exposed to 50% of cases that allowed skills praxis. The most common barrier to participation (34.5%) was the opportunity to participate in patient care and 68% of student's were unsure if paramedics understood their role during clinical placements. This study demonstrates that the majority of students were satisfied with their clinical placement experience even though they were exposed to 50% of cases that allowed skills practice. Identifying these educational barriers will assist in improving the quality and theory-practice gap of paramedic clinical education.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 23-12-2010
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2010.2.12.580
Abstract: This article argues that the Australian paramedic sector has reached a critical point in its development as a recognized profession. It identifies and describes a number of the most influential factors that are currently driving change throughout the Australian health care system and that can be demonstrated to have significant impact upon the emergency health care sector. In order to remain and grow as an autonomous and respected part of being part of contemporary service delivery, and consequently becoming recognized as a profession, a number of key questions demand answers: does the sector have the capacity to help with burgeoning health care workforce shortages or offer alternatives in service delivery? If it does, does the role equate to some form of extended practitioner or shared care roles such as physician assistant or paramedic practitioner? Either way, it appears reasonable that the role, responsibilities and function of a paramedic both in urban and rural locales in the near future will undergo some form of change: the question is whether any such change will be professionally developmental or detrimental? While this article focuses on the issues in Australia, many of these issues are also faced by the paramedic profession and health care sector in the UK. Therefore, it should provide the JPP readership with useful material in their ongoing development of alternative service delivery models and quest to improve workforce productivity.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.729
Abstract: Internationally, emergency medical services (EMS) are an essential access point to the healthcare system. Building an understanding of the professional, educational and demographic profiles of an EMS workforce is important. The aim of this study is to statistically test the professional profiles of EMS providers against the Saudi ParamEdic Competency Scale (SPECS) model factors. Healthcare providers working for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) were surveyed using a cross-sectional study design with purposive s ling technique. The independent variables were tested against the five SPECS model factors of ‘Professionalism’, ‘Preparedness’, ‘Communication’, ‘Clinical’ and ‘Personal’. Of the 1260 surveys distributed, 909 surveys were returned (72.14% response rate). A total of 927 EMS healthcare professionals contributed to the study of whom 866 (93.4%) were male and 61 (6.6%) female. Of the participants, 552 (59.5%) were aged 29–39 years and 508 (54.8%) had 5–9 years’ experience. This is the first national study to explore and contextualise the erse professional stakeholders in Saudi EMS. The study was able to employ the professional profiles of the participants in understanding the different perceptions of the SPECS model. We recommend that future research address the specific differences identified in the demographic, professional and educational aspects of this study.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 08-05-2020
DOI: 10.1108/IJES-08-2019-0047
Abstract: Current statistics highlight the increasing prevalence of homelessness in Australia, however, there is scant research regarding empathy and homelessness in the paramedic literature. Research in other areas of healthcare demonstrates that interaction with the homeless can positively impact empathetic attitudes and also highlights the opportunity to examine if these results are consistent or generalisable to the Australian paramedic profession. Therefore, the aim of our study was to explore paramedic students' empathetic attitudes towards homelessness. A sequential mixed method design study was undertaken using a repeated measures and focus group approach. Paramedic students participated in clinical experience, involving interactions with the homeless. This entailed participating in at least four shifts (11 pm – 5 am) where students gained experience at the Salvation Army Health Café or with the Youth Street Teams in Melbourne, Australia. Empathy levels of the paramedic students toward homelessness, both pre- and post- were measured using the Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS) and the Health Professionals' Attitudes Toward the Homeless Inventory (HPATHI). A focus group with student participants was also conducted to obtain further detailed information about their perceptions of the experience. A total of 20 students participated (100% response rate). Statistically significant ( p 0.05) increases were observed on the MCRS pre- to post- data with total mean scores of 48.35 (SD ± 8.33) and 51.65 (SD ± 5.56), respectively. On the HPATHI a statistically significant ( p 0.0001) increase in Personal Advocacy was observed. Eight of these students took part in a subsequent focus group. Following thematic analysis of the focus group, a number of common themes were identified that included: communication, empathy and rapport, and a change in perception and attitude. The results of this pilot study demonstrate that through participation in a project involving experience interacting with the homeless population, paramedic students showed a greater level of empathy towards the homeless. Increases in empathetic regard, social advocacy and personal advocacy were also found.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-08-2021
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12870
Abstract: Holland's RIASEC typology is a classification of vocational personality types and work environments. Having a predisposition for their vocation, in terms of a personality that is congruent to their work environment, may be protective for paramedics with regards to both their mental and physical health. The purpose of this study was to identify paramedicine students' vocational preference according to Holland's RIASEC model. Bachelor of Paramedicine degree students in the three different year levels completed the 48‐item Brief RIASEC Marker Scales to determine their order of the six RIASEC personality types. In this study, the paramedicine students' three most dominant personality types were Social‐Investigative‐Artistic, differing from the defined Holland Occupational Code for paramedics of Realistic‐Social‐Investigative. Male students scored significantly higher on the Reality personality type, whereas female students scored significantly higher on the Social personality type. Overall, this study found many students to possess two of the three dominant personality traits that form the desired Holland code for paramedics. This suggests that many students may be better able to cope with the demands of the paramedicine profession upon employment.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-07-2013
DOI: 10.1111/J.1471-6712.2012.01048.X
Abstract: It is important for educators to consider the communication skills of students enrolled in health science programmes. To date, research into this area is limited, and having measures that are valid and reliable would assist educators and researchers to complete high-quality investigations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factor structure of Communicator Styles Measure. Data from the Communicator Styles Measure completed by 860 undergraduate health science students enrolled in eight different courses at an Australian university (response rate of 59%) were analysed using principal component analysis with varimax rotation and a cluster analysis using elementary linkage analysis. The Communicator Styles Measure is a self-report scale consisting of 40 items designed to assess ten communication styles and one's perception of his/her ability to communicate. Communicator Styles Measure items loaded onto five new viable factors labelled personable, energetic, confident, open and confronting. Six items of the original 40 from the Communicator Styles Measure did not load onto any factor and were therefore considered redundant. The original factor structure proposed by the Communicator Styles Measure's author was not supported, which calls into question its construct validity. However, the five new factors identified in this study may be useful for researchers and educators when assessing the communication skills of students and practitioners. Further investigation into the construct validity and reliability of the five new Communicator Styles Measure factors is recommended.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 05-10-2018
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 13-03-2020
DOI: 10.1108/IJES-08-2019-0048
Abstract: Emergency medical services (EMS) educational standards in Saudi Arabia have developed at an unprecedented rate, and the rapid pace of development has resulted in a considerable disparity of educational approaches. Therefore, an empirically based core competency framework should be developed. The aim was to utilize exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in the reduction and generation of a theoretical Saudi competency model. A purposive s le was utilized in a national quantitative cross-sectional study design of Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) healthcare workers. The instrument comprised 41 core competency items rated on a Likert scale. EFA alpha factoring with oblique promax rotation was applied to the 41 items. A total of 450 EMS healthcare providers participated in the study, of whom 422 (93.8 per cent) were male and 28 (6.2 per cent) female. Of the participants, 230 (60 per cent) were aged 29–39 years and 244 (54.2 per cent) had 5–9 years of experience. An EFA of instrument items generated five factors: professionalism, preparedness, communication, clinical and personal with an eigenvalue 1, representing 67.5 per cent of total variance. Only variables that had a loading value .40 were utilized in the factor solution. The EFA model Saudi ParamEdic Competency Scale (SPECS) has been identified, with 27 core competency items and five overarching factors. The model has considerable similarities to other medical competency frameworks. However, some aspects are specifically unique to the Saudi EMS context. The SPECS model provides an academic blueprint that can be used by paramedic educational programs to ensure empirical alignment with the needs of the industry and community.
Publisher: Hamad bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press)
Date: 10-05-2017
Abstract: Aim: The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of the evolution of emergency medical services (EMS) in Saudi Arabia to describe its history, organisational service providers, governance, EMS statistics and the educational development of the field with the disparity of educational approaches. Background: The EMS is an important part of the healthcare system as it is often the first point of contact for medical emergencies. The EMS in Saudi Arabia has seen a number of positive changes over the past decade, some of which include the development of several university and college programs dedicated to teaching EMS, the evaluation of the profession from a post-employment first aid model into a pre-employment bachelor's degree model, the generous governmental scholarship grants overseas and the official accreditation of EMS as a profession. It has been approximately nine years since the first EMS bachelor's degree programs were developed in Saudi Arabia, some of which were directly adopted from universities in developed countries such as Australia. Despite these positive changes, the current EMS system in Saudi is faced with many challenges, both organisational and educational, including the lack of research, community involvement, the educational status of practitioners and the inconsistencies of statistics relating to response time and rate of transfer. This paper describes the history of EMS in Saudi Arabia with a specific focus on identifying the disparity in the educational outcomes and approaches adopted by colleges and universities in the Kingdom. Methods: The data utilised for the research of the EMS profession in Saudi Arabia were obtained from the literature using search tools such as MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Saudi health journals, Saudi university websites, government reports and statistics. Conclusion: The EMS profession in Saudi Arabia has advanced greatly in the past 12 years. Yet there is still scope for considerable improvement, especially with regards to developing empirically identified core competencies for EMS bachelor's degree graduates. There is also the need for providing more outreach to the public to improve awareness of current services and available training, building more collaboration between the industry employers and academic institutions and investing further in EMS research through the development of Saudi-based postgraduate master's and PhD EMS degrees. This paper is the first to provide an overview of the EMS service in Saudi Arabia, for institutions and researchers to gain a better understanding of the history and current standing of the service from an educational and operational perspective.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.IENJ.2014.11.001
Abstract: The aims of this quasi-experimental before-and-after study were to first determine whether the use of eye tracking technology combined with video debriefing techniques has the potential to improve the quality of feedback and enhance situation awareness (SA) in simulated settings and second to determine students' satisfaction towards simulated learning. Nursing and paramedicine students from three universities participated in three 8-minute simulation scenarios of acutely deteriorating patients. Eye tracking glasses video recorded the scenarios and tracked right eye movement. On completion, participants were questioned using the Situation Awareness Global Assessment Technique, completed the Satisfaction with Simulation Experience Scale (SSES), and provided textual feedback and received video-based verbal feedback. Participants lacked awareness of presenting medical conditions and patient environments and had poor recall of patient vital signs. Significant improvements in SA scores were demonstrated between the first and third scenarios (P = 0.04). Participants reported greater insight into their performance and were satisfied with simulated learning. Use of visual field review techniques appears to enhance the use of realistic simulated practice as a means of addressing significant performance deficits. Eye tracking and point of view recording techniques are feasible and with applicable debriefing techniques could enhance clinical and situated performance.
Publisher: World Journal of Emergency Medicine
Date: 2012
Publisher: Instituto Politecnico Nacional/Centro de Investigacion en Computacion
Date: 31-03-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-09-2016
DOI: 10.1002/OTI.1443
Abstract: This study investigated whether occupational therapy students' emotional intelligence and personality traits are predictive of specific aspects of their fieldwork performance. A total of 114 second and third year undergraduate occupational therapy students (86.6% response rate) completed the Genos Emotional Intelligence Inventory (Genos EI) and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI). Fieldwork performance scores were obtained from the Student Practice Evaluation Form Revised (SPEF-R). Linear regressions were completed with the SPEF-R domains being the dependent variables and the Genos EI and TIPI factors being the independent variables. Regression analysis results revealed that the Genos EI subscales of Emotional Management of Others (EMO), Emotional Awareness of Others (EAO), Emotional Expression (EEX) and Emotional Reasoning (ERE) were significant predictors of various domains of students' fieldwork performance. EAO and ERE were significant predictors of students' Communication Skills accounting for 4.6% of its variance. EMO, EAO, EEX and ERE were significant predictors of students' Documentation Skills explaining 6.8% of its variance. EMO was a significant predictor of students' Professional Behaviour accounting for 3.2% of its variance. No TIPI factors were found to be significant predictors of the SPEF-R domains. Occupational therapy students' emotional intelligence was a significant predictor of components of their fieldwork performance while students' personality traits were not. The convenience s ling approach used, small s le size recruited and potential issue of social desirability of the self-reported Genos EI and TIPI data are acknowledged as study limitations. It is recommended that other studies be completed to investigate if any other relevant constructs or factors are predictive of occupational therapy students' fieldwork performance. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 05-09-2022
DOI: 10.1111/HSC.13985
Abstract: Community paramedic roles are expanding internationally, and no review of the literature could be found to guide services in the formation of community paramedicine programmes. For this reason, the aim of this restricted review was to explore and better understand the successes and learnings of community paramedic programmes across five domains being education requirements, models of delivery, clinical governance and supervision, scope of roles and outcomes. This restricted review was conducted by searching four databases (CENTRAL, ERIC, EMBASE, MEDLINE and Google Scholar) as well as grey literature search from 2001 until 28/12/2021. After screening, 98 articles were included in the narrative synthesis. Most studies were from the USA (n = 37), followed by Canada (n = 29). Most studies reported on outcomes of community paramedicine programmes (n = 50), followed by models of delivery (n = 28). The findings of this review demonstrate a lack of research and understanding in the areas of education and scope of the role for community paramedics. The findings highlight a need to develop common approaches to education and scope of role while maintaining flexibility in addressing community needs. There was an observable lack of standardisation in the implementation of governance and supervision models, which may prevent community paramedicine from realising its full potential. The outcome measures reported show that there is evidence to support the implementation of community paramedicine into healthcare system design. Community paramedicine programmes result in a net reduction in acute healthcare utilisation, appear to be economically viable and result in positive patient outcomes with high patient satisfaction with care. There is a developing pool of evidence to many aspects of community paramedicine programmes. However, at this time, gaps in the literature prevent a definitive recommendation on the impact of community paramedicine programmes on healthcare system functionality.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-01-2017
DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2016.1267641
Abstract: Educational institutions should aim to positively influence the attitudes of future health care practitioners toward older patients to ensure the provision of quality patient care. This systematic review of the literature aims to determine the effectiveness of educational interventions designed to improve health care student behaviors and/or attitudes toward older people. The 29 studies included in this review utilized a variety of interventions, methods, and measurement tools. The most common type of educational intervention incorporated interaction with real patients. Few studies evaluated the impact of interventions on behavior therefore, more observational studies are required. Overall interventions incorporating interactions with real patients who are independently living had a positive impact on student attitudes toward older adults. Clinically focused placements with patients who are ill may still have a place in the development of the patient-centered interview and assessment skills, along with improving confidence and competence, despite not having a favorable impact on attitudes.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2018
Abstract: Australian 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. We surveyed a cohort of qualified Australian paramedics using the modified Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey. We 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. This 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 s le, 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.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2020
DOI: 10.2147/JMDH.S279092
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
Publisher: International Journal of Medical Education
Date: 25-05-2012
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2017
Abstract: This research aimed to gain an understanding of the psychosocial support needs of older patients in the out-of-hospital setting from the perspective of paramedics. Specifically, we investigate if and how paramedics are able to meet the needs of older adults, and the barriers preventing them from achieving this. This study was a cross-sectional study utilizing a sequential design with both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. All participants agreed or strongly agreed that older patients have needs beyond the physical and that they would like to do more for older patients. Paramedics discussed that psychosocial support issues are rarely in isolation and straightforward but were often coupled with broader, longer term physical health and social support issues. They would like to be able to do more for patients but feel hamstrung by lack of time, resources, and know-how.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2021
DOI: 10.2147/JMDH.S347811
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJLP.2018.01.009
Abstract: Several scholars have hypothesised a link between empathy and a range of important outcomes for law students including well-being, mental health and the development of effective client-lawyer relationships. However, few studies have examined these claims empirically. Empirical investigation of empathy among law students requires effective methods of measuring empathy. The present study sought to examine an instrument designed specifically to measure empathy among law students - the Jefferson Empathy Scale - Law Students (JSE-LS). The study involved examining the internal consistency and factor structure of the instrument using a s le of 276 Australian undergraduate law students. The study found that a four-factor solution was optimal for the dataset. Two of the factors were readily interpretable with previous literature, however the remaining two factors were unstable, suggesting the need for further revision of the instrument. Recommendations for revising the JSE-LS to better measure empathy are discussed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-03-2021
DOI: 10.1002/EMP2.12391
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2018
Abstract: Paediatric patients comprise a reasonable minority of paramedic workload, but cases involving children often evoke anxiety and discomfort. Subsequent feelings of low confidence and self-efficacy have been linked with a reluctance to initiate treatment and possibly, poorer care. It is unknown to what extent these apprehension-producing perceptions are held by paramedics and what educational strategies can improve them. This study aims to fill this gap by reporting on a scoping review that examined and mapped the effectiveness of educational interventions on improving paramedic perceptions of caring for paediatric patients. Arksey and O'Malley's scoping methodology was used. CINAHL, AMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsychINFO databases were searched, alongside several networks and grey literature services. The search strategy was validated by a subject research-librarian. Two reviewers independently reviewed retrieved articles against inclusion and exclusion criteria determined in advance. Seventeen articles were included in the review, comprising six conference abstracts, one letter to the editor and 10 journal articles. These articles were categorised into three themes: identifying educational needs and preferences, novel education programs and evaluating education delivery methods. Paramedics feel uncomfortable treating paediatric patients and desire more paediatric training, particularly simulation and exposure to children. There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate superior effectiveness of any particular training program. While the most effective education delivery method is unclear, it seems web-based learning can be as effective as traditional teaching. The efficacy of existing pre-established paediatric training programs needs to be investigated, alongside paediatric education in the initial training curriculum. Further research, particularly from outside the United States of America, is needed to identify and develop the most effective educational intervention to improve paramedic confidence with paediatric patients.
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 07-2011
DOI: 10.12968/JPAR.2011.3.7.388
Abstract: Higher education has seen a rapid increase in the use of Web 2.0 applications, such as wikis, blogs, podcasts and vodcasts. While their use and integration has been investigated by other cognate and non-cognate disciplines, this has yet to be formally undertaken by the paramedic discipline. Therefore, this article describes a pilot study that examines the student use of wikis to support case-based learning (CBL) within a Bachelor of Emergency Health (BEH) degree at Monash University. The aim of this study is to report student attitudes on group work using wikis during weekly CBL activities. Methods: a cross-sectional study using a convenience s le of second year undergraduate students enrolled in the BEH degree were surveyed using a short paper-based self-reporting questionnaire focused on attitudes towards wikis. Included with the questionnaire was a brief set of demographic questions. Results: overall, participants reported positive attitudes and perceptions towards the use of wikis and peer-based learning during the weekly clinical cases. For ex le, item 1: ‘I found the group wiki useful in completing the team task’ reported a median score of 3 (IQR 2-3), while item 3: ‘using wiki encouraged better participation of each group member in the case’ reported a median score of 2 (IQR 2-3). Despite the positive results, there were areas that require further attention such as social loafing, and development of a more flexible learning management system. Conclusion: although findings from this study are preliminary, it appears that wikis are a useful addition to CBL in paramedic clinical units. Further research is warranted using a larger s le size, and integrated and compared across both clinical and non-clinical units. Closer examination of discrete pedagogical issues such as peer- and self-based learning is also necessary, particularly with the increasing use of educational technology being used throughout higher education.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-2009
DOI: 10.1177/030802260907200607
Abstract: Health care professionals, including occupational therapists, are required to work collaboratively with other disciplines in order to provide high-quality care to their clients. As such, it is paramount that health care professional students learn about the professional roles of others and teamwork through interprofessional education (IPE). However, students are often educated in isolation from other disciplines and difficulties with clinically-based IPE have been acknowledged. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate occupational therapy students' perceptions of the use of digital video disc (DVD) simulations as a learning tool for IPE and practice placement education. Eleven DVD simulations were developed by Monash University and a team of health care professionals. Students from the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy programme at Monash University viewed two or more simulations, and their perceptions were elicited using a mixed methodology approach consisting of a self-report questionnaire (n = 19) and three focus groups. Overall, the DVD simulations were perceived positively as a useful tool for IPE, to supplement practice placement education by occupational therapy students. Although the students did not feel that the simulations could replace actual practice placements, the cost benefit of using DVD simulations to teach, promote and facilitate IPE should be further investigated.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-02-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2012.02.017
Abstract: Peer assisted learning is growing internationally as a beneficial pedagogical strategy in health care and tertiary education. Therefore having instruments such as the Clinical Teaching Preference Questionnaire (CTPQ) with strong measurement properties to use in educational research is vital. To investigate the factor structure of the CTPQ when completed by a group of respondents from a large Australian university. Data from the CTPQ completed by first year undergraduate nurses were analysed with a factor analysis using a Principal Axis Factoring (PAF) with Oblique Oblimin rotation. A total of (n=265) first year undergraduate nursing students participated in the study. The vast majority of the participants were female 89% (n=236) and aged between 17 and 21 years of age 74% (n=197). Factor analysis of the 10 items revealed two factors with eigenvalues above 1, accounting for 68.3% of the total variance. Items with loadings greater than ± .30, with the factor in question, were used to characterise the factor solutions. Findings from the exploratory factor analysis provide preliminary results that the CTPQ has adequate construct validity and reliability. This offers those involved in peer-assisted teaching and learning with a practical and usable instrument.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2018.08.009
Abstract: Studies in peer learning and teaching reported in the nursing literature are mainly descriptive, summarising positive aspects using survey and interviews. Application of pedagogical approaches to near-peer teaching in undergraduate nursing, using educational psychology frameworks to explain the outcomes, is relatively unknown. The objective of this integrative review was to ascertain outcomes of near-peer teaching in undergraduate nurse education and theoretical frameworks used to explain outcomes of near-peer teaching. Included qualitative and quantitative studies. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA protocol and Joanna Briggs Institute processes and included studies published between the years 1990 and 2017. Quality appraisal involved two independent reviewers analysing the data, and narrative synthesis was used to report results. Two hundred and twenty-one abstracts were assessed independently by two reviewers for relevance to near-peer teaching in undergraduate nurse education, 29 articles selected for further review with 10 meeting the inclusion criteria. Benefits of near-peer teaching were reported as creating a safe supportive learning environment, learners viewing near-peer teachers as effective role models and increased confidence experienced by learner and teacher. Studies focused mainly on cognition in relation to performance with little emphasis on metacognition or affective behaviours, highlighting the need for more studies to provide definitive evidence supporting this pedagogical approach and framing its implementation around theories, particularly from educational psychology. Lack of training provided to near-peer teachers highlighted that it is imperative that faculty embed near-peer teaching into the curriculum. To develop this educational intervention, studies in near-peer teaching are required to assess affective behaviours and metacognitive qualities of near-peer teachers to determine how this educational intervention can impact learning and performance of both the learner and near-peer teacher.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-08-2021
DOI: 10.1177/09697330211008634
Abstract: Professional ethical codes are an important part of healthcare. They are part of the professionalisation of an occupation, are used for regulation of the professions and are intended to guide ethical behaviour in healthcare. However, so far, little is known about the practical use of professional codes in healthcare, particularly in paramedicine. The aim of this scoping review was to determine what is known in the existing literature about health professionals’ knowledge, awareness and use of their professional codes. A scoping review was performed based on a six-stage framework as described by Levac et al. Six databases were searched: OVID Medline, EMBASE, EMCARE, CINAHL, ProQuest and Scopus, in September 2020. Google Scholar, Trove and Google using .gov and .org websites were also searched for grey literature. Two reviewers independently assessed study eligibility. The search yielded 1162 results after duplicate removal. Thirty-nine studies remained after title and abstract review. Twenty-five articles were included after full-text review. Sixteen examined nursing, eight examined medicine and one examined both nursing and medicine. No studies were identified that examined paramedicine. Twenty-one studies were of a cross-sectional design and four studies were of a qualitative design. Most health professionals know the codes exist, but do not think they know the content. Despite valuing professional codes highly, healthcare professionals do not use them regularly in clinical practice. Further research is needed, and professional codes should be made useful for practice and consideration given to how codes can be written, communicated and implemented to increase their actualisation in healthcare. Research should also begin in paramedicine to identify clinician’s knowledge and use of codes in this profession. Open Science Framework – doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/NKBY4 This article does not contain any studies involving human participants performed by any of the authors. The review followed good scientific conduct.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-07-2018
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 25-02-2011
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 09-2012
DOI: 10.12968/IPPR.2012.2.3.77
Abstract: Over the past century the Australian paramedic discipline has gone through a dramatic evolution moving from its origins of an ambulance driver to its current practitioner role as an integral member of the Australian health care system. However, at present the Australian paramedic discipline is not considered a full profession by the national or state governments. This begs the further question, how does the paramedic discipline within Australia view itself? This paper has two objectives: 1) To examine whether or not the Australian paramedic membership views itself as a profession, and 2) if it does not regard itself as such, whether the paramedic community wants to be considered a full profession within Australia. 3800 questionnaires were posted to all Australian College of Ambulance Professionals (ACAP) members around Australia. An investigation of attitudes towards professionalisation were investigated using an 8-item paper-based self-report questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale (1=Strongly Disagree to 5=strongly agree). A total of 872 paramedics (23 % response rate) returned completed questionnaires. The responses indicated that, broadly speaking, the Australian paramedic membership does not consider itself a recognised profession, furthermore, the Australian membership indicated a desire for paramedics to be recognised as a profession. Given that first, the paramedic discipline does not presently view itself as a full profession and second, the paramedic discipline wants to become recognised as a profession. The study identified a set of underpinnings of professional paramedic practice including professional autonomy, national accreditation for paramedic education programmes, and the development of a unique body of knowledge.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-05-2014
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.11.2.23
Abstract: IntroductionMeasurement of a blood pressure (BP) in the prehospital setting is one of many basic skills required of a paramedic. Assessment of BP is also one of several clinical measures that determines the patient’s treatment and possibly the receiving hospital. The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of undergraduate paramedic students in taking a BP in a non-clinical setting.MethodsThis was a prospective observational study using the Laerdal VitalSim mannequin with the BP volume and strength set at mid range values to test the accuracy of BP measurement. There were 62 third year Monash University paramedic students available for the study. We used three different BP ranges, a low, normal and high BP. Each student was randomly assigned the first and second BP by using a random number table. Each student was permitted one practice BP prior to the study data collection commencing. Ethics approval was granted.ResultsA convenience s le of 26 (42%) third year undergraduate paramedic students participated. 69% were female, with 46% being between 21 and 25 years of age. Two students, nurses, had previous BP measurement experience. There were six, four and four students who accurately measured the high, normal and low BP respectively. There was a statistical significant difference between the actual and student measured BP for the high systolic BP (p=0.004), normal systolic BP (p=0.023), and low systolic (p=0.019) and diastolic (p=0.004) BP.ConclusionThis pilot study has highlighted that third year Monash University paramedic student’s lack BP measurement accuracy in a non-clinical setting. This pilot study has highlighted the need for a review of how the teaching of BP measurement is undertaken within the curriculum.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-04-2021
Abstract: The high prevalence of preventable infectious and chronic diseases in Australian Indigenous populations is a major public health concern. Existing research has rarely examined the role of built and socio-political environmental factors relating to remote Indigenous health and wellbeing. This research identified built and socio-political environmental indicators from publicly available grey literature documents locally-relevant to remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia. Existing planning documents with evidence of community input were used to reduce the response burden on Indigenous communities. A scoping review of community-focused planning documents resulted in the identification of 1120 built and 2215 socio-political environmental indicators. Indicators were systematically classified using an Indigenous indicator classification system (IICS). Applying the IICS yielded indicators prominently featuring the “community infrastructure” domain within the built environment, and the “community capacity” domain within the socio-political environment. This research demonstrates the utility of utilizing existing planning documents and a culturally appropriate systematic classification system to consolidate environmental determinants that influence health and disease occurrence. The findings also support understanding of which features of community-level built and socio-political environments amenable to public health and social policy actions might be targeted to help reduce the prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases in Indigenous communities.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.2147/OAEM.S12541
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-08-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X12001124
Abstract: Although the majority of Australian intensive care paramedics use the manual intraosseous infusion technique (MAN-IO), several other semiautomatic devices now are available, such as the bone injection gun (BIG) and the semiautomatic intraosseous infusion system (EZ-IO). Given the choice of devices now available, questions have been raised regarding success rates, accuracy, decay of skills, and adverse events. Review the literature regarding the use of intraosseous (IO) devices in the prehospital setting. Selected electronic databases (Medline, Embase, and CINAHL) were searched, and a hand search was conducted for grey-literature that included studies from the commencement of the process to the end of May 2010. Inclusion criteria were any study reporting intraosseous insertion and/or infusion (adult and pediatric) by paramedics in the prehospital setting. The search located 2,100 articles 20 articles met the inclusion criteria. The review also noted that use of IO access (regardless of technique) offers a safe and simple method for gaining access to the patients’ vascular system. A number of studies found that the use of semiautomatic devices offers better and faster intraosseous access compared with the use of manual devices, and also were associated with fewer complications. The findings also suggest that the use of semiautomatic devices can reduce insertion times and the number of insertion attempts when contrasted with the use of manual insertion techniques. Despite these findings, statistically no specific IO device has proven clinical superiority. While manual IO techniques currently are used by the majority of Australian paramedics, the currently available evidence suggests that semiautomatic devices are more effective. Further research, including cost-benefit analyses, is required at a national level to examine skill acquisition, adverse effects, and whether comparative devices offer clinically significant advantages. Olaussen A , Williams B . Intraosseous access in the prehospital setting: literature review . Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012 27 ( 5 ): 1 - 5 .
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-09-2021
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12765
Abstract: This scoping review aims to identify which non‐technical skills have been empirically identified in the literature, to create the first list of empirically identified non‐technical skills for paramedics and allied health personnel. A five‐stage scoping literature was undertaken in March 2020. The search retrieved a total of 4756 citations. A total of 93 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed for data charting. A total of 26 non‐technical skills were identified in the literature. The top five non‐technical skills included decision‐making (33%, n = 31), communication (24%, n = 23), empathy (17%, n = 16), leadership (12%, n = 12), and ethics (10%, n = 10). Furthermore, only five studies investigated the assessment or measurement of non‐technical skills. This scoping review identified 26 non‐technical skills that had been investigated in the paramedic literature to create the first list of empirically based desirable non‐technical skills for a paramedic. Subsequently, research can then begin to focus on identifying the link that these have to paramedic practice and patient safety.
Publisher: International Journal of Medical Education
Date: 13-09-2011
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S347363
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-2007
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X0000532X
Abstract: There are many patient assessment challenges in the prehospital setting, especially the estimation of external blood loss. Previous studies of experienced paramedics have demonstrated that external blood loss estimation is highly inaccurate. The objective of this study was to determine if undergraduate paramedic students could accurately estimate external blood loss on four surfaces commonly found in the prehospital environment. This prospective, observational, blinded study used a convenience s le of undergraduate students studying at Monash University during 2006. Students were provided with four clinical vignettes using four different surfaces and varying simulated blood amounts. Accurate estimation occurred with the vinyl simulation (100 ml), with a mean value of the estimations of 98 ml (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 84–113 ml). Carpet and concrete surfaces were both associated with large under-estimations.The carpet simulation (1,000 ml) had a mean value for the estimations of 347 ml (95% CI 320–429 ml). The concrete simulation (1,500 ml) had a mean value for the estimations of 885ml (95% CI 771–999 ml). Conversely, the clothing simulation (500 ml) emphasized over-estimation, with a mean value for the estimations of 1,253 ml (95% CI 1,093–1,414 ml). There was no relationship between increased accuracy and clinical experience, exposure, educational qualifications, or age of students. External blood loss estimation by undergraduate paramedic students generally is too inaccurate to be of any clinical benefit. Particularly, absorbent and impermeable surfaces precipitated inaccuracies by undergraduate paramedic students.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEDT.2009.02.008
Abstract: The study aimed to evaluate the usability of DVD simulations, the impact on student learning, clinical placement orientation, and the potential for using DVD simulations to reduce the clinical placement burden on the health care system with nursing students. A total of 11 DVD simulations were developed by Monash University academics. Second year students (N=191) from the Bachelor of Nursing course at Monash University, viewed a range of DVDs. Students' perceptions and attitudes about the clinical relevance of the simulations were assessed by having them complete a 7-point Likert self-report scale. Qualitative data was also collected from two focus groups (N=7). Overall, nursing students perceived the DVD simulations positively in relation to learning attention (M=4.93, SD=1.02, CI 4.25-4.54), learning potential (M=4.45, SD= 1.30, CI 5.13-5.50), clinical relevance to practice (M=5.32, SD=0.65, CI 4.36-4.55), and information processing quality (M=5.62, SD= 1.02, CI 5.47-5.76). The following themes emerged from the focus groups: provided familiarisation for clinical placements, learning wastage occurs in varying amounts, simulations could replace some clinical placement rotations, supportive of multidisciplinary approach and integration, and simulations should have pedagogical integration into weekly clinical cases. Nursing students reported that the simulations were educationally, professionally, and clinically relevant. The cost benefit of using DVD simulations as an alternative and potential replacement to elements of nursing clinical placements should be investigated further.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.2147/AMEP.S225818
No related grants have been discovered for Brett Williams.