Paramedics' perceptions of their scope of practice in caring for patients with non-medical emergency-related mental health and/or alcohol and other drug problems: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Paramedics are called on frequently to provide care to patients with mental health and/or and alcohol and other drug (AOD) problems, but may have mixed views about how this fits within their role.

Aims

To explore paramedics' experience of caring for patients with non-medical emergency-related mental health and/or AOD problems, understand their perceptions of their scope of practice in caring for these patients, and ascertain if their practice should be extended to incorporate education with these patients.

Method

A convenience sample of 73 paramedics from most Australian states and territories-recruited through an online survey-participated in individual audio-recorded, qualitative interviews, conducted by telephone. The interviews were part of a mixed meth

SUBMITTER: McCann TV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6292637 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature