[Sustainability in practices and thought processes in prehospital emergency medicine : A survey of emergency service personnel].

Abstract

Background: Sustainability in emergency medicine constitutes a nascent area of inquiry that has thus far attracted limited scholarly attention; however, it is experiencing burgeoning interest. To date, there are no empirical studies examining how emergency medical personnel evaluate the concept of sustainability or what specific aspects and propositions they may have regarding the topic.

Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to investigate the perspectives of emergency medical employees concerning the concept of sustainability in prehospital emergency medicine.

Materials and methods: An online survey comprising 23 questions was administered. Participation was voluntary and conducted anonymously.

Results: A total of 462 participants participated in the survey, predominantly consisting of paramedics (74% male, 26% female), aged between 25 and 44. Approximately 70% of respondents expressed that they had contemplated the potential for enhancing sustainability within emergency medicine. Participants deemed the separation of packaging as a practical measure, particularly concerning syringes, cannulas and infusion systems. The estimated incidence of contamination for these materials is less than 50%. Nevertheless, factors such as insufficient time, space or motivation are cited as barriers to effective waste separation. Packaging, especially for patient blankets, cervical collars and infection protection gowns, is identified as potentially superfluous. Participants indicated that the majority of waste is attributed to plastic packaging and disposable gloves.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that emergency medicine employees are aware of sustainability issues. Participants identified pragmatic avenues for waste separation and reduction in prehospital patient care, while also acknowledging potential challenges. Further research is needed to elucidate sustainability opportunities within prehospital emergency medicine.