{"title":"Lifting the rug…","authors":"Nagina Zaroof","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.3.127","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.3.127","url":null,"abstract":"This month, Nagina Zaroof confronts the uncomfortable truth about racism in our society","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"53 62 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-03-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"115459055","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Assessment and management of children with head injury: practice and opinion","authors":"Alyesha Proctor, S. Voss, M. Lyttle, J. Benger","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.58","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.58","url":null,"abstract":"Head injury is common in children with approximately 700 000 attendances at emergency departments annually; one-third are conveyed by ambulance. However, 75% of them are discharged with no treatment. Most head-injured children could be managed on scene. This study aimed to investigate paramedic assessment and management of children with minor head injury. A web-based survey of paramedics at one trust was carried out, and simple descriptive analysis was completed. Fifty-nine paramedics took part. Parental anxiety, mechanism of injury, presence of red flags, fear of consequences and safeguarding concerns were the most common reasons that paramedics convey children with head injury to the emergency department. Paramedics employ a variety of non-validated tools to help them assess and manage children with head injury, with the head injury guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence most used. A lack of confidence in wound closure was a key barrier to managing patients on scene, along with a perceived inability to manage children in general, limited GP availability, a lack of training in paediatrics and risk avoidance. Several factors inhibit the ability of paramedics to manage children with minor head injury on scene, leading to avoidable hospital conveyance. Three-quarters of paramedics said they would benefit from a clinical decision tool to support them in the assessment and management of children with minor head injury.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"165 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"116599231","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Betty Pennington, Steve Bell, Adam Wright, James E. Hill
{"title":"Impact of COVID-19 on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest care processes","authors":"Betty Pennington, Steve Bell, Adam Wright, James E. Hill","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.74","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.74","url":null,"abstract":"Early bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, use of defibrillators (including automated external defibrillators) and timely treatment by emergency medical services are known to increase the chances of survival for a patient experiencing an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this is unclear from examining previous literature. This commentary critically appraises a recent systematic review and meta-analysis, which assessed the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on prehospital care for OHCA.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"11 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"134078573","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
John F. Taplin, D. Dalgarno, Michèle Smith, Ty Eggenberger, S. Ghosh
{"title":"Community paramedic outreach support for people experiencing homelessness","authors":"John F. Taplin, D. Dalgarno, Michèle Smith, Ty Eggenberger, S. Ghosh","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.51","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.51","url":null,"abstract":"To evaluate the implementation phase of a community paramedic program focused on individuals experiencing homelessness (IEH) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada with a high prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders. A manual chart review was performed to characterise patients of the City Centre Team (CCT). A survey was performed of health professionals and partners for allied agencies that interacted with the CCT in the first 6 months of program implementation. There were 832 patient events involving 365 unique patients. Mental health and substance use disorders accounted for 75% of the events. The survey results were positive with 85% agreeing that the CCT reduced the reliance on emergency services. The community paramedics address the health and social needs of IEH while working in a multidisciplinary setting. The CCT is an innovative program that can inform future health service design in similar settings.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"29 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"117033126","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
C. Mortimer, D. Nikoletou, A. Ooms, Julia Williams
{"title":"Effects of nebulised beta-2 agonists on clinical observations in asthma exacerbations","authors":"C. Mortimer, D. Nikoletou, A. Ooms, Julia Williams","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.cpd1","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.cpd1","url":null,"abstract":"Despite concerns over their side effects, short-acting beta-2 agonists are still used in high doses in prehospital care internationally to treat asthma exacerbations. This systematic review set out to identify the physiological effects associated with this treatment and determine their potential impact on the patient's presenting or underlying conditions. A systematic search of literature published from 2010 to 2020 focusing on asthmatic patients receiving nebulised beta-2 agonists during an acute exacerbation was undertaken and relevant articles reviewed. Eight out of 897 studies met the inclusion criteria. While the studies were heterogeneous with a range of outcome measures, synthesis showed evidence of bronchodilator action throughout, with reductions in potassium levels and cardiovascular changes reported in several studies. Therapeutic effects demonstrated within the data support the use of nebulised beta-2 agonists in these patients and, while adverse effects are frequently seen in the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, their impact on the patient's overall condition remains unclear.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"38 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"123476165","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Specialist paramedics' perceptions of their transition to primary care","authors":"Naomi Lafitte, Freda Mold, C. Magnusson","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.78","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.78","url":null,"abstract":"Many specialist paramedics are moving from the ambulance service to primary care. There is a lack of empirical literature regarding this transition. This study aims to improve support for specialist paramedics undertaking the transition by ascertaining factors that may hinder or facilitate the process. The study used semi-structured interviews with eight specialist paramedics working in primary care in England. An interpretative phenomenological analysis approach was used to analyse data, and this was informed by a review of theoretical and empirical literature. Facilitators and barriers to transition were found, along with information regarding the transition. Five facilitators were identified: previous clinical experience; mentorship; support; clear role parameters; and opportunity to develop. Four barriers were identified: role misunderstanding; changing scope of clinical practice; time pressures; and gaps in education and knowledge. This study contributes to a limited field of research by highlighting barriers and facilitators to the transition of specialist paramedics to primary care. Practical steps can be taken to smooth this transition.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"52 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125655025","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"ECG case series for paramedics: February 2023","authors":"C. Bloe","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.50","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.50","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"14 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"115541837","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Community role education: an evaluation of knowledge, skills and confidence","authors":"Linda Ross, Brenda N. Shannon","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.66","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.66","url":null,"abstract":"With the expansion of specialist non-traditional community paramedic roles, education programmes need to be fit for purpose, evidence-based and informed by industry and community requirements. To evaluate the effectiveness of a community paramedic short course in improving knowledge, skills and confidence in undertaking a community paramedic role. Educational intervention evaluation of a short course on community paramedicine. All participants increased their mean scores for knowledge, skills and confidence. The biggest areas of improvement were seen in areas not historically taught or practised in paramedicine such as falls assessments, ear/nose/throat assessment and care, gastrointestinal assessment and care, and troubleshooting urinary catheters and specialist equipment. This type of education is successful in improving knowledge, skills and confidence. However, exposure to patients with specialist community health care needs and adequate support in the novice phase is fundamental for the consolidation of education.","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"24 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125225487","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Releasing the pressure","authors":"Derek Ford","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.84","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.84","url":null,"abstract":"In his first NQP Perspective column, Derek Ford reflects on his journey as a mature student","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"47 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"132136180","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Reading an ECG","authors":"Aysha Mendes","doi":"10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.49","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2023.15.2.49","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":136781,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Paramedic Practice","volume":"35 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-02-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"133241964","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}