Electrocardiographic interpretation by emergency medical services professionals in Saudi Arabia: A cross sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiac arrhythmias in prehospital settings is largely determined by providers of emergency medical services (EMS) who can proficiently interpret the electrocardiography (ECG). The aim of this study was to assess the ECG competency of EMS providers in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

Between Aug and Sep 2022, we invited all EMS providers working for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Makkah, Riyadh, and Sharqiyah regions to complete a cross-sectional survey. The survey was used to assess the ability of EMS providers to interpret 12 ECG strips. Characteristics and ECG competency were summarized using descriptive statistics. Differences in ECG competency across paramedics with lower and higher qualifications were assessed.

SUBMITTER: Alalwan MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10586609 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature