Elizabeth Donnelly, PhD, MPH, LICSW, NREMT is a Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Donnelly’s primary research interest is in workforce mental health issues in paramedicine. Visit www.elizabethdonnelly.com to learn more about Dr. Donnelly’s work.
Filling the gaps: How can we best equip community paramedics to practice in reflective and healthy ways?
Dr Elizabeth Donnelly1
1University Of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
Abstract
Introduction
Community paramedicine has developed rapidly in the last decade, including both novel deployment strategies, patient-problem foci, as well as in training and credentialing requirements. While these innovative developments have demonstrated significant positive contributions to patients and the community, less is being discussed about how paramedics are being trained to engage with patients and families in long-term ways.
Methods
To address this gap, this presentation will review evidence drawn from other helping professions (e.g., social work, counselling, nursing) to discuss the ways in which paramedic training programs may better equip community paramedics to engage therapeutically with patients across multiple encounters.
Results
Long term engagement with clients requires a specific skillset, including how to engage with patients using active listening skills, understanding client needs and preferences without inserting paramedic-driven needs, priorities, or values. To engage in this way, paramedics need to understand how their own values may inform practice, develop skills to maintain therapeutic boundaries, understand how and when this type of work may impact their own health and wellbeing, and how to engage in the necessary steps to take care of themselves when necessary.
Conclusions
Community paramedicine is evolving quickly. Equipping paramedics with the tools and skills to engage with clients in these spaces is critical to help protect their wellbeing as well as optimize the quality of their patient care engagements.