Dr Matthew Simpson1, Dr Paul Simpson1, Dr Liz Thyer1, Dr Martin Christensen2
1Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Australia, 2Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
Biography:
A highly experienced paramedic with 25 years in intensive care, community paramedicine, and virtual care. An early career researcher focused on mental health and qualitative research. A motivational leader and educator dedicated to advancing paramedicine into new and evolving areas of healthcare.
Abstract:
Introduction
Paramedicine has undergone significant shifts in the context and scope of care in the 21st century. While clinical practice for physical health presentations has advanced through the development of evidence-based guidelines, there remains limited evidence to guide paramedics in best practices when caring for persons presenting with a mental health crisis.
Methods
This study employed descriptive phenomenology to explore the lived experiences of 17 Australian paramedics working in jurisdictional ambulance services. Data were collected through one-on-one unstructured interviews and analysed using Colaizzi's seven-step method.
Results
One of the four central themes was ’It’s just all a little bit grey, paramedic education and training in mental health presentations'. In this theme, participants expressed concerns about insufficient foundational and continuing education in the context of persons presenting with a mental health crisis. These deficits left participants feeling ill-equipped and ill-prepared for such clinical interactions. Participants highlighted the need for additional education, knowledge, clinical practice guidelines, and skills in paramedic undergraduate, induction and ongoing education programs.
Conclusions
Gaps in knowledge, education, and training present significant challenges for paramedics in delivering mental health care, potentially resulting in uncertain and inconsistent care for persons experiencing a mental health crisis. Addressing these deficits through enhanced education, targeted training, and further research to support evidence-based guidelines is essential to ensure paramedics have the requisite knowledge, skills and confidence needed to provide effective and consistent care to persons experiencing a mental health crisis.