Examining the occupational stress experienced by ambulance staff

Anchors, Zoe

Abstract

Objectives: UK ambulance staff are the most burnt out in the NHS and work stress is a key reason for staff absence. Work stressors such as lack of manager support and poor work-life balance have previously been identified for ambulance staff. The current study will investigate which specific stressors have the most negative impact on health, well-being, performance, and intention to leave; whether these impacts are mediated by cognitive appraisals or coping strategies; and which ambulance staff are most at risk of stress-related problems.

Methods: A mixed-methods stress audit will be conducted amongst ambulance staff in Southwest England (n = 7045), comprising an online survey and individual interviews. The survey will assess the entire stress process (stressors, appraisals, coping), key outcomes (mental health, well-being, performance, and intention to leave), and stress management preferences. Semi-structured interviews (n = 8) will explore stress experiences and future stress management intervention ideas.

Results: Data collection will begin in April 2023. Multiple regression analyses will be used to examine the relationships between predictors (e.g., stressors) and outcomes (e.g., well-being). ANOVAs and t-tests may also be used to explore differences between groups (e.g., lone vs. team responders). A full thematic analysis of all qualitative data will be conducted.

Conclusions: Findings will: (1) identify which stressors are having the most negative impact on ambulance staff, (2) understand why this impact may occur, and (3) which staff are most at-risk. This vital information will inform the effective development and delivery of tailored stress management interventions.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: 44th Stress, Trauma, Anxiety, and Resilience Society International Conference, 19 July, 2023
• Start Date: Jul 19, 2023
• Deposit Date: Mar 11, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 12, 2024
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/11793070