Dr. Katie Tunks Leach1, Associate Professor Joanne Lewis2, Associate Professor Paul Simpson3, Distinguished Professor Tracy Levett-Jones1
1 University Of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 2Avondale University, Sydney, Australia, 3Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
Biography:
Katie is a Registered Nurse, Research Assistant, and Volunteer Ambulance Chaplain. She currently works in tertiary research and education where her interests include empathy and compassion, the connection between health and spiritual care, and frontline worker wellbeing. In her spare time, Katie enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and woodwork.
Abstract:
Background: Increased attention on paramedic wellbeing has resulted in the implementation of wellbeing programs aimed at supporting and promoting paramedic health. To ensure holistic approaches, these programs have included psychologists, peer support workers, exercise physiologists and sometimes pastoral care/chaplaincy. While there has been considerable research into mental and physical wellbeing, no evidence-based research has been undertaken to determine the role or impact of pastoral/spiritual care. The aim of this study was to explore the role and value of chaplains in Australian ambulance organisations.
Methods: This exploratory sequential mixed-methods study commenced with qualitative semi-structured interviews with paramedics and chaplains in one state service (Phase 1). Findings informed the development of a paramedic-specific survey (Phase 2) which was distributed to AHPRA-registered Paramedics across Australia between Nov-Dec 2022 (Phase 3).
Results: Qualitative findings from 13 chaplains and 17 paramedics were integrated with 150 survey responses to address the research aim. Personal beliefs and pre-existing relationships were influential in determining if paramedics would seek pastoral/chaplain support. Using skills including listening, assessment and supportive conversations, ambulance chaplain’s provided relational care to paramedics in their workplaces, and to bystanders at impactful jobs. Chaplain care was perceived to be a proactive, frontline role that promoted emotional, psychological and spiritual wellbeing, reduced barriers to help-seeking, and facilitated specialist referrals. How organisations implemented chaplaincy programs influenced their effectiveness.
Conclusion: With the appropriate training and attributes, and in the presence of professional caring relationships, chaplains can promote paramedic wellbeing in their workplaces, regardless of personal beliefs.