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Exploring the nature of resilience in paramedic practice: A psycho-social study

Clompus, S. R.; Albarran, J. W.; Clompus, Susan; Albarran, John

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Authors

S. R. Clompus

J. W. Albarran

Susan Clompus Susan.Clompus@uwe.ac.uk
Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing

John Albarran



Abstract

© 2015 Elsevier Ltd Previous research has identified that paramedics experience high levels of stress and sickness rates which have escalated in recent years due to changes to workforce restructuring. While a number of studies have investigated resilience among healthcare professionals, there is little research exploring how paramedics address work challenges and how they become resilient. Using psycho-social methodology, seven paramedics participated in Free Association Narrative interviewing; all were based at one regional centre. In line with the study design, data analysis adopted a psycho-social approach that generated four themes and 10 sub-themes which, characterised participants' experiences. Coping and resilience was impacted upon via formal methods of support including management, debriefing and referral to outside agencies. Alongside this, more informal methods aided resilience. Informal methods included peer support, support from family and friends and the use of humour. Uniquely, this study uncovered how detachment is used to manage emotions. The study has implications for the services need to support the emotional needs of paramedics.

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Nov 24, 2015
Online Publication Date Dec 17, 2015
Publication Date Sep 1, 2016
Publicly Available Date Jun 7, 2019
Journal International Emergency Nursing
Print ISSN 1755-599X
Electronic ISSN 1878-013X
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 28
Pages 1-7
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ienj.2015.11.006
Keywords paramedic, resilience, stress, coping, emotions, detachment, management, psycho-social
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/904636
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ienj.2015.11.006

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