An exploration of the views of paramedics regarding airway management

Brandling, Janet; Rhys, Megan; Thomas, Matthew; Voss, Sarah; Davies, Sian Emma; Benger, Jonathan

Abstract

© 2016 Brandling et al. Background: Paramedics are a skilled group of clinicians with expertise in airway management. Our research group has completed a trial comparing supraglottic airway devices with tracheal intubation during out of hospital cardiac arrest. This is a contentious topic amongst paramedics in the United Kingdom (UK). We explored the customs and beliefs of UK paramedics in relation to airway management, and whether tracheal intubation contributes to and sustains paramedic professional identity. Methods: The study took place within South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. We used a qualitative approach, conducting interviews and focus groups with paramedics. The themes arising from interviews were discussed in focus groups, developing a deeper understanding and providing insight and recommendations for future research and policy. Purposive sampling accounted for differing training and for participation in the main trial. There were 17interviews and five focus groups with a further 17 participants. Data saturation was achieved. Results: Four domains were identified. Pride - The ability to use a life-saving skill in austere conditions. Utility - Different training routes and experience have led to different attitudes towards airway management. Inconsistent expectations - Paramedics felt that there were different perceptions of their abilities amongst hospital staff and the general public. Professionalization - Debate over airway management is not founded on good evidence. Conclusion: We have demonstrated that UK paramedics have a wide range of views regarding airway management, and that these are based on evidence and experience rather than dogma. Airway management contributes to paramedics' professional identity, but is not reliant on this.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 16, 2016
• Publication Date: Apr 27, 2016
• Deposit Date: Jul 19, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 19, 2016
• Journal: Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine
• Electronic ISSN: 1757-7241
• Publisher: BioMed Central
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 24
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 56
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13049-016-0243-2
• Keywords: airway management, cardiac arrest, paramedics
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/917174
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s13049-016-0243-2
• Contract Date: Jul 19, 2016