Ambulance services and paramedics perform critical roles in contemporary healthcare economies. Trained to work in the field and respond rapidly to emergencies, societies have come to increasingly rely on ambulance services to deliver urgent care. Never has this need been more acute than in recent years given intense social inequality, overstretched and underfunded health systems, and deadly pandemics. Leo McCann offers the first book-length study of the paramedic profession in England. Based on in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation, The Paramedic at Work provides a detailed account of the complex realities of work in this fascinating occupation. Chapters explore the nature of work 'out on the road', the peculiarities of ambulance organizational culture, the intensity of workplace stress and burnout, and the current and future trajectory of paramedic professionalism. The book documents the unique paradoxes experienced by those employed in this line of work. Ambulance staff are trained to handle life-threatening trauma and disease, but most callouts consist of unplanned primary care. Paramedic work features wide autonomy but is also bound into an array of micromanaging performance indicators. Paramedics are trusted and respected in society but the profession is poorly understood and employers can be unsupportive. However, no matter how intense the personal struggles can be, paramedic work also offers rare opportunities for meaningful and socially valued work. This book shows that the role and status of the paramedic is rapidly moving from a manual occupation rooted in first aid and transportation, to a clinical profession of increasing scope, versatility, and social respect.

Ambulance services and paramedics perform critical roles in contemporary healthcare economies, yet this occupation is widely misunderstood. Through in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation, Leo McCann offers the first detailed study of the nature, development, culture, and future of the paramedic profession in England.

"This book is too good for one profession. It needs to be read by those in all safety-critical industries." Martin Bromiley OBE FRCSEd (ad hom), Founder, Clinical Human Factors Group "I would highly recommend this book, not only to paramedics but also to their colleagues in healthcare. It has been written by a premier league team of human factors specialists and frontline experts who share their knowledge and experience of applying human factors science to paramedic practice." Rhona Flin, Professor of Industrial Psychology, Robert Gordon University, UK "This book will be essential reading for paramedics in all practice settings as it covers the key elements which will allow paramedics to better understand the complex sociotechnical realities of the care they provide to patients." Andy Collen, author of Decision Making in Paramedic Practice The system elements of paramedic practice are interconnected and complex. These elements can include the patient, the paramedic and their colleagues, the environment, the equipment, the tasks, and the processes and procedures of the organisation. Considering the socio-technical realities of care that paramedics provide are so complex, how can you best meet these challenges to support safe and effective practice as a clinician? Written as an introduction to the discipline of human factors, the authors highlight key principles and theories and relate these to aspects of paramedic practice. Containing practical prehospital examples, this resource provides a firm understanding of systems thinking and design, enabling you to look for instances where the principles of human factors might be applied in your own practice. Accompanied by 40 full-colour images, chapters cover key topics including: ‘Human error’ Systems thinking Human-centred design Interaction with the patient Well-being of the paramedic Safety culture Non-technical skills of individuals and teams. Whether you are a pre-hospital care professional who is involved in education, learning from events, procurement, or influencing safety culture, you will benefit from the tools and techniques provided throughout.

EMS

Fundamentals of Paramedic Practice An indispensable guide for aspiring paramedics and emergency medical professionals Paramedic practice is swiftly evolving, driven by changes in the paramedic curriculum. To meet the growing demands of the community, student paramedics and clinicians working in out-of-hospital care must stay abreast of this rapid evolution. Fundamentals of Paramedic Practice, Third Edition contributes to driving the profession forward and provides a comprehensive, accessible text authored by experienced paramedics and academics. This third edition has undergone comprehensive updates, introducing new chapters that provide students and recently registered practitioners with a vital overview of the theory and practice of contemporary paramedicine. This is an essential resource for the next generation of paramedics and out-of-hospital practitioners. Readers of the third edition of Fundamentals of Paramedic Practice will find: A multidisciplinary approach incorporating varied and dynamic research New chapters on subjects including end of life care, domestic violence, and paramedic wellbeing Learning activities to aid understanding and retention Fundamentals of Paramedic Practice, Third Edition is ideal for undergraduate paramedic and emergency care students, as well as registered paramedics, clinicians, and educators.

Drawing on extensive ethnographic research, this fascinating book highlights the challenges and contradictions faced by neophyte paramedics as they transition from a classroom setting into day-to-day clinical work placements. Shining a spotlight on the subculture of the UK Ambulance Service, as well as the paramedic profession more widely, it examines critically how language, cultural meanings, institutionalised rules, professional identity, and working practices determine key behaviours within paramedic practice, providing readers with insight into the profession not seen by members of the public or portrayed by media representations. The book draws on work of seminal authors and experts in the field to provide a sociological perspective on this not only challenging but also, at times, chaotic professional environment. Supported by fieldnotes as well as interviews with students and paramedics, the book will be essential reading for any student on the path to becoming a paramedic. It will also be valuable reading for those within the service who wish to better understand the hidden cultural and social components that lie beneath the practice itself.