OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to seek validity evidence for simulation-based assessments (SBA) of paramedics by asking to what extent the measurements obtained in SBA of clinical competence are associated with measurements obtained in actual paramedic contexts, with real patients. METHODS This prospective observational study involved analyzing the assessment of paramedic trainees ...

Most computer professionals know that difficult ethical issues may arise in their work. We believe that these professionals want to “do the right thing.” They accept their responsibilities as moral agents and they recognize that their special technical skills give them power and responsibilities. However, the will to act ethically is not sufficient; computer professionals also need skills to ar...

BACKGROUND Unplanned out-of-hospital birth is often perceived as precipitate in nature, 'infrequent', 'normal' and 'uncomplicated'. However, international studies report unplanned out-of-hospital birth is associated with increased rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This research describes intrapartum, immediate postpartum and neonatal care provided by paramedics in Queensla...

BACKGROUND The Ambulance Services have a critical role in the management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Paramedic delivered prehospital thrombolysis (PHT) has been proposed. To the authors' knowledge there has been no research carried out to ascertain the views of paramedics. METHODS The authors conducted a postal questionnaire study of 250 paramedics in the West Yorkshire Metropolitan...

OBJECTIVES To examine the emerging role of the emergency care practitioner (ECP) with comparisons to paramedic practice. Key activities were identified of newly appointed ECPs using qualitative methodology and a qualitative and quantitative comparison of patient treatment was made. METHOD A constructivist methodology taking account of stakeholder input and drawing upon the constant comparison...

OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of extended trained ambulance personnel (paramedics) for the management of out of hospital cardiac arrest. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of patients who suffered a cardiac arrest between 1 January 1992 and 31 July 1994, and who were transported to their local accident and emergency (A&E) department. Data were collected on basic demography, opera...

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the benefits of paramedic practitioners assessing and, when possible, treating older people in the community after minor injury or illness. Paramedic practitioners have been trained with extended skills to assess, treat, and discharge older patients with minor acute conditions in the community. DESIGN Cluster randomised controlled trial involving 56 clusters. Weeks were ...