A qualitative study of paramedics' attitudes to providing prehospital thrombolysis
Open Access
- 1 October 2005
- journal article
- Published by BMJ in Emergency Medicine Journal
- Vol. 22 (10) , 738-741
Abstract
Objectives: To explore paramedics’ attitudes to administering prehospital thrombolysis (PHT). Method: In-depth interviews with 20 paramedics were recorded and transcribed and analysed for emergent themes using the constant comparative method. Results: Although there was a will to provide PHT because of its benefits to patients, its associated risks, aspects of pay and working conditions, and certain organisational factors undermined the willingness of some paramedics to administer thrombolysis. The eight minute response time standard is a competing imperative which can delay thrombolysis. Conclusions: A minority of paramedics are likely to be unwilling to deliver PHT unless countervailing imperatives are addressed.Keywords
This publication has 9 references indexed in Scilit:
- Safety and feasibility of prehospital thrombolysis carried out by paramedicsBMJ, 2003
- The advances and evidence base for prehospital careEmergency Medicine Journal, 2003
- Prehospital selection of patients for thrombolysis by paramedicsEmergency Medicine Journal, 2002
- What motivates EMTs and paramedics?2001
- Advanced trauma life support training for ambulance crews2001
- PTSD symptoms, response to intrusive memories and coping in ambulance service workersBritish Journal of Clinical Psychology, 1999
- Early thrombolytic treatment in acute myocardial infarction: reappraisal of the golden hourThe Lancet, 1996
- Relation Between Symptom Duration Before Thrombolytic Therapy and Final Myocardial Infarct SizeCirculation, 1996
- Prehospital thrombolysis: Beneficial effects of very early treatment on infarct size and left ventricular functionJACC, 1993