Nikiah Nudell, PhD(c), MS, MPhil, NRP, FACPE, Paramedic Research Scientist for UCHealth: Loveland, CO, and The Paramedic Foundation, USA.
Helen Debes, BSc., Advanced Care & Community Paramedic, County of Renfrew; Paramedic Clinical Instructor, Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, ONT, CA.
Dr. Belinda Flanagan, PhD., Associate Dean Rozelle Precinct – Head of School, School of Paramedicine, University of Tasmania, AUS.
Dr David Fitzpatrick PhD, DipIMC RCSEd, PGCert HE, FHEA, MC Paramedic; Adjunct Senior Researcher, School of Paramedicine, University of Tasmania, Scotland, GB.
Dr. Tom McEwan, FRCM., NHS Education for Scotland: Edinburgh, Scotland, GB.
Introduction
In the world of emergency medical services, paramedics often find themselves at the front line of diverse and critical situations. Among these, obstetric and neonatal emergencies pose unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and skills. As the landscape of pre-hospital care continues to evolve, so must the knowledge and competency of those who deliver it. To ensure that paramedics are equipped with the best possible training and resources, we are conducting a comprehensive survey to understand current knowledge levels and identify gaps in skills related to obstetrical emergencies. Your participation in this research is crucial and can significantly contribute to informing the focus of education for paramedics, ensuring the delivery of high-quality care to mothers and infants in critical situations.
The Scope of Obstetric Emergencies (and Potential Neonatal Emergencies)
Obstetric and neonatal emergencies encompass a range of scenarios, including preterm labor, eclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and complicated deliveries, among others. These are high-acuity but often low-frequency events. These situations can rapidly escalate, requiring quick decision-making and skilled intervention. Paramedics are often the first healthcare providers to respond, making their role vital in ensuring positive outcomes for both mother and child.
The Need for Specialized Knowledge and Skills
Despite the frequency and importance of obstetric and neonatal emergencies, studies suggest that there is variability in the training and confidence levels of paramedics in handling these situations. This variability can impact the effectiveness of pre-hospital care. Comprehensive training programs and continuous professional development are essential to address this issue. However, to develop targeted training initiatives, we need a clear understanding of paramedics’ current state of knowledge and skills.
About the Survey
Our research survey is designed to gather data on paramedics’ experiences, knowledge, and confidence levels when dealing with obstetrical emergencies in the United States and Canada. The insights gained from this survey will be invaluable in shaping future training programs and resources. The survey covers various aspects, such as:
- Recognition and management of common obstetric and neonatal emergencies.
- Confidence in performing emergency interventions.
- Availability and use of obstetric and neonatal emergency equipment.
- Previous training and desire for further education in this area.
Why Your Participation Matters
Your input as a practicing EMT or paramedic (internationally, we are all considered to be paramedics) is crucial. By participating in this survey, you will:
- Help identify the strengths and weaknesses in current training programs.
- Contribute to the development of more effective and comprehensive educational resources.
- Enhance the overall preparedness of paramedics in managing obstetrical emergencies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Ethics Committee Oversight
The Paramedic Perinatal Care in Non-Obstetric Settings study has ethics committee oversight and approval as follows:
In the USA: Colorado Multiple Institutional Review Board, COMIRB #: 23-1319.
In Canada: Research Ethics Board at Algonquin College, Protocol #: 2023-NOV-DEBES.
How to Participate
Participating in the survey is straightforward and will only take a few minutes of your time. Your responses will be kept confidential and used solely for the purpose of this research. To take part in the survey, please click the link below:
Conclusion
Obstetric and neonatal emergencies are critical pre-hospital care aspects requiring specialized knowledge and skills. By participating in our survey, you are taking an active role in improving the quality of care provided by paramedics. Your insights will help shape future training and ensure paramedics are better prepared to handle these challenging situations. We greatly appreciate your time and contribution to this important research.
Thank you for your dedication to emergency medical services and for helping us enhance the care provided to mothers and infants in emergencies.