Paramedic Students Research Articles

Awareness Among Girl Healthcare Students Regarding Physiological Nature of Vaginal Discharge

BACKGROUND: Leucorrhoea also spelled leukorrhoea, as a flow of a whitish, yellow, or greenish discharge from the vagina of the female that may be normal or that may be a sign of infection. Commonly, physiological vaginal discharge is confused with being associated with some pathology. AIMS: The aim of this study was; to estimate the percentage of awareness about physiological nature of vaginal discharge in MBBS students; Paramedical students and Nursing students, to estimate the percentage of women experiencing vaginal white discharge, estimating the percentage of women/girls who consult doctors because of vaginal white discharge, advising women/ girls with pathological vaginal discharge for consultation. METHODS: The present cross sectional study was done among female students from Medical, Paramedical and Nursing branch of Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal. Total number of 246 female students were taken into the study. They were provided with a questionnaire consisting of 30 questions, which was divided into sections of; Awareness, Evaluation, Practice and Knowledge. The answers given by the three groups were compared for studying awareness regarding physiological nature of vaginal discharge. Nature of vaginal discharge experienced by individual students was also evaluated. Comparison of Practices followed by the students in daily life was also done. Knowledge regarding vaginal discharge was studied. RESULTS: Students were scored on basis of their answer in knowledge and awareness; each correct answer awarded 1 point and incorrect answer awarded 0. Unpaired t Test for comparing the Awareness Scores shows significant inter-group variation in awareness. Medical students had significantly higher awareness about vaginal discharge as compared to the other two groups. Further, Awareness of the paramedical group was higher than the nursing group. Overall responses within each group were however homogenous, representing comparable intra-group awareness about vaginal discharge. Similar findings were seen for knowledge scoring. CONCLUSION: It was found that Awareness & knowledge regarding physiological vaginal white discharge is highest in medical students followed by paramedical & nursing students. Nursing students consult doctors the most, medical students consult the least. But the positive and negative attitude towards the discharge is homogeneous in all the groups. A small portion of medical students had never experienced vaginal discharge.

Comparing reflection levels between facilitator-led and student-led debriefing in simulation training for paramedic students

BackgroundSimulation in healthcare attempts to create relevant representations of patient encounters. It provides experiential learning, bridging typical classroom activities and clinical practice. This study aims to investigate whether the principle of Peer-Assisted Learning can be used in simulation by letting simulation-experienced paramedic students prepare, deliver, and debrief their own simulations, with minimal faculty assistance. This could be a way to support student learning by being involved in teaching, and it might at the same time optimise the cost-effectiveness of simulation-based training.MethodsThis observational non-inferiority study compared reflection levels between facilitator-led and student-led simulation and debriefing, between scenario types, and compared the number of turns in which students are involved in both settings. Third-year Bachelor in Paramedic Science students’ debriefings were filmed and transcribed. The degree of reflection in students’ statements was rated according to a modified version of Fleck’s analytical framework of reflection levels, assigning scores from lowest (R0 description) to highest (R4 critical reflection). Facilitator-led and student-led debriefings were compared using chi-square tests. Scenarios were also analysed according to type (paediatric emergencies and complex assessments) regardless of who led the simulation.ResultsTen facilitator-led and 12 student-led debriefings were analysed. Students gave 682 (49%) contributions in the facilitator-led debriefings, and 702 (51%) contributions in student-led debriefings. Comparison of reflection levels between facilitator-led and student-led debriefings was respectively: R0-level 32.7% vs 33.8%, R1-level 44.0% vs 44.3%, R2-level 14.7% vs 17.1%, R3-level 0.1% vs 1.3%, and R4-level 0.1% vs 0.1%. There were no statistically significant differences in reflection levels between facilitator-led and student-led debriefings (p = 0.178). Comparing the reflection levels between the scenarios on “paediatric emergencies” and “complex assessments”, the results were respectively: R0-level 35.4% vs. 31.7%-level, R1-level 45.3% vs. 43.3%-level, R2-level 13.4% vs. 17.8%, R3-level 0.5% vs. 0.9%, and R4-level 0.0% vs. 0.3%. These differences were statistically significant (p = 0.010). No significant differences in engagement were found between debriefings led by a student or a facilitator, when measuring the number of turns in the conversations.ConclusionsFacilitator-led and student-led debriefings resulted in equivalent reflection levels amongst students. Student-led simulation is potentially a cost-effective supplement to regular simulation within a healthcare degree program. Since complex scenarios provided higher reflection levels than paediatric, scenario design might influence reflection levels.

Perceptions of paramedic educators on assessments used in the first year of a paramedic programme: a qualitative exploration

BackgroundIn Ireland, there are currently three educational institutions (recognised institutions- RIs) providing paramedic programmes, accredited by the regulator, the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC). Each RI assesses their students in-house, and in order to acquire a licence to practice, students must also pass summative assessments provided by PHECC. These assessments comprise multiple choice questions, short answer questions and skills assessments. The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of paramedic educators of assessments used within their institution and by the regulator to provide insights that could inform the future design of paramedic assessments.MethodsA qualitative study with an interpretivist approach and purposive sampling strategy was performed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with educators from one RI, across their three sites. Data were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis.ResultsFour major themes were identified in the data: improving assessments by enhancing authenticity, modifying the current process of assessment, aligning the PHECC and RI examinations and opportunities to use assessment as learning.ConclusionsThis study identifies perceived deficits and opportunities in the assessments currently used for paramedic students and ways in which these assessments could be improved. While participants were relatively content with their own RI assessments, they identified ways to improve both the RI and PHECC assessments. Modifying some of the current methods could be a useful first step. In particular, assessments used by PHECC could be improved by reflecting ‘real-world’ practice. The inclusion of additional assessment methods by PHECC, a continuous assessment process or devolvement of the entire assessment suite, to the RI/University has the potential to enhance assessments, particularly summative assessments, for paramedic students.

Mental health difficulties in paramedics: A review of the literature

BackgroundParamedics are frequently exposed to traumatic events as part of their role. The implications of this constant exposure have suggested that paramedics are at high risk of developing long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, burnout, trauma, PTSD, and suicide.PurposeTo synthesise studies to examine factors that play a role in the development of mental health difficulties in ambulance personnel. As well as, establishing gaps within the literature for further research.Data SourcesFrom the first 77 published journals reviewed from Psycinfo, PsychArticles, CINAHL, Education Research Complete, ERIC and grey literature, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review and were included in the present study.ResultsFindings of this review suggest that the mental health and wellbeing of paramedics are significant issues. In reviewing the research, it was found that several different factors may play a role in the development of mental health difficulties in ambulance personnel. Four main themes were determined, (1) occupational stressors, (2) negative attitude towards emotional expression, (3) peer and social support, and (4) preparing paramedics for mental health challenges.ConclusionsIt is paramount for further research to explore paramedic students’ mental health experiences, as well as a focus on research to investigate a UK paramedic population due to most of the literature focusing on an international population. Psychological support and early interventions should be made a priority for all ambulance workers, as a way of improving the quality of the working life of paramedics.

Reduced burnout in medical and health science students during the pandemic COVID-19 - a follow-up study of a single institution in Hungary

BackgroundThe coronavirus pandemic has significantly impacted lives worldwide, especially of medical and health science students. In Hungary, education has been relegated to the online space, with a substantial proportion of students having to attend medical secondments. Increased stress, uncertainty, and the presence of medical secondments can have an impact on students’ premature burnout.MethodsIn 2021, we conducted a follow-up survey among students of the University of Pécs studying medicine and health sciences in two data collection periods (from March to May and September to November). Our online questionnaire consisted of the Maslach Burnout Inventory General Survey for Students and our self-designed questionnaire. We used descriptive and paired two-sample t-tests for data analysis at a 95% confidence interval (p ≤ 0.05).ResultsWe excluded from our survey respondents whose data we could not follow-up; finally, 183 students’ responses were analyzed. The majority of students were female (n = 148; 80.9%). Overall, there was a significant decrease in both exhaustion (EX) and cynicism (CY) scores (p = 0.001; p = 0.004). Female respondents had higher EX scores, but a significant decrease was observed for both genders (p ≤ 0.05). Excluding paramedic students, a significant decrease in EX scores was observed for the specialties we studied (p ≤ 0.05). General medicine students’ CY scores decreased; physiotherapy students’ profesisonal efficacy (PE) scores increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05). Students who were on medical secondments (n = 127; 69. 4%) were found to be more affected by burnout, but in all cases, these scores significantly improved (p ≤ 0.05). Students serving in the National Ambulance Service (n = 76; 41.5%), Hospitals (n = 44; 24.0%), or both (n = 7; 3.8%) had a significant decrease in their burnout score (p ≤ 0.05). Students who served in either a hospital or a hospital and National Ambulance Service had significantly improved CY and PE scores (p ≤ 0.05). Students concerned about their health had elevated EX and CY scores, which also improved (p ≤ 0.05).ConclusionsIn conclusion, medical secondments positively affected student burnout scores for medicine and health sciences students at our institution. This fact implies that it is necessary to have more internships in real-life settings during the training.Trial registrationOur survey has been approved by the Medical Research Council (Case No IV/4573-1/2021/ECU).

An Analysis of Drug Use-Related Curriculum Documents for Paramedic Students in British Columbia

An Analysis of Drug Use-Related Curriculum Documents for Paramedic Students in British Columbia

IMPACT OF FALSE FIRST AID INFORMATION AND MYTHS ON PARAMEDIC EDUCATION

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of false information and myths related to first aid on paramedic education that have been formed in society.
 Method: A two-level qualitative approach was employed. Focus group interviews with paramedic students were conducted at the beginning of their paramedic training and subsequently, at the end of the second semester, when they had completed their basic paramedic training. An independent qualitative researcher conducted thematic analysis in two stages. Furthermore, to complete the analysis and triangulation of data, paramedic educators involved in the research team reviewed and interpreted the presented themes independently.
 Findings: Ten themes emerged from the first focus group interviews, including misinformation about first aid and practices that may be considered myths. The participants also revealed that the media and family elders disseminated false information and myths related to first aid. Furthermore, while false information could be corrected in subjects such as foreign body aspiration and hemorrhages that are taught mainly in practice in the curriculum, there was resistance when attempting to rectify false information in more theoretical subjects such as poisoning and epilepsy.
 Conclusion: Paramedic students are affected by false information related to first aid. Despite the academic education they received to become professional emergency medical service (EMS) employees, they appeared to resist replacing some incorrect first aid information with that which is correct. It is deemed that the media is the most important means to replace false information with true information and spread scientific information.

Anatomy Education becomes “Alive”

Anatomy Education becomes “Alive”

Development and Validation of a Revised Ambivalent Ageism Scale for Use in the Health Care Sector: The AAShc.

The aim of this study was to adapt and validate the Ambivalent Ageism Scale (AAS) among paramedical students for use in the health care sector. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the following paramedical students: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and nursing students. A total of 6 items were added based on the literature and the scale was evaluated by students and professors with experience working with older adults. The following psychometric properties were evaluated: internal consistency, concurrent validity, structural validity (exploratory factor analysis), and reliability. A total of 265 students participated: 19.2% physiotherapy students, 27.5% occupational therapy students, 50.6% nursing students, and 2.6% other paramedical students. The concurrent validity study showed a significant correlation between AAShc (Ambivalent Ageism Scale in the health care sector) and UCLA-GAS-F (French version of the University of California, Los Angeles Geriatric Attitudes Scale) with r (265) = 0.491 (p < .001). The factor analyses produced an 18-item (α = 0.866) scale composed of 5 factors: Infantilization (5 items, α = 0.766), Control (2 items, α = 0.789), Overaccommodation (2 items, α = 0.829), Unwanted help (2 items, α = 0.656), and Hostile Ageism (7 items, α = 0.717). Finally, the generalizability analysis revealed a G-coefficient of 0.86, a Phi-coefficient of 0.83, and a standard error of measurement of 2.31%. The AAShc appears to be a valid and reliable scale to measure ageism among paramedical students. This scale can be a useful tool to reduce ageism toward older adults in the health care sector.

Examining the relationship between the pre-hospital incident scene management of the paramedic students and their anxiety levels and perception of leadership

AimThe aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the pre-hospital incident scene management of paramedic students and their anxiety levels and perception of leadership. MethodThe sample of this descriptive correlational study consisted of 2nd-year students (N = 157) attending the associate degree program of the vocational school of healthcare services in two universities located in the eastern Turkey. No sample selection was used and the study was completed with 130 students. The data were collected using Socio-Demographic Data Form, Incident Scene Description Form, Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, and Multidimensional Leadership Orientations Scale. The data were analyzed using number, percentage distribution, mean, and standard deviation. Normally distributed data were analyzed by correlation analysis. ResultsIt was found that 65.4 % of the participants were female, 69.2 % received education on incident scene at the university, 52.3 % stated that this education was adequate, 58.5 % received education on leadership and crisis management at the university, and 60.7 % had no further suggestions for their education at the university. The mean scores of the students’ knowledge on incident scene management were 15.77 ± 4.5, their total mean scores of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale were 35.38 ± 10.31, and their total mean scores of the Multidimensional Leadership Orientations Scale were 57.77 ± 20.26. A statistically significant negative very weak correlation was found between the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale and the Multidimensional Leadership Orientations Scale (r = -0.225, p < 0.010). ConclusionThe results of this study revealed that the students had a low level of knowledge about crime scene management. As their anxiety levels increased, their perception of leadership decreased. It can be suggested to organize in-service and simulation trainings that will increase students' awareness of the courses related to crime scene management in their curriculum.

A study to evaluate the effectiveness of competency based skill training programme on bandaging techniques among paramedical students

When any individual got any injury or wound the first and foremost remedy is to stop bleeding and prevent further injury. Bandaging is the procedure of casing wound or an injured body part. It is necessary to learn technique of bandaging. Were to assess the effectiveness of training programme on knowledge and skill regarding selected bandaging techniques among paramedical students. Used for this study was pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test design. It was carried out with 40 samples. Non-randomized convenient sampling technique was used to select the subjects. A self-administered knowledge questionnaire and observational skill checklist was used to assess the knowledge and skill regarding selected bandaging techniques. The data collected was analysed and interpreted based on descriptive and inferential statistics. Shows that Pre-test knowledge score, 80% (32) of the students were in the poor level of knowledge and remaining 20% (08) were having average level of knowledge. The Post-test knowledge score, 52.5% (21) of the students were in the Good level of knowledge and remaining 47.5% (19) were having average level of knowledge. The Mean score before manipulation was ±4.7 and the standard deviation was ±29.35 whereas after intervention Mean score was ±13.37 and SD was ± 83.52. The mean difference is ± 8.67. The calculated ‘t’ value ± 12.11 which was greater than critical value i.e., ± 2.05 which depicts that significance at the 0.05 level. That pre-test skill was 87.5% (35) found to be inadequate whereas remaining 12.5% (5) were having adequate skill. The 12.5% (5) of them found to be Inadequate and majority 87.5% (35) were shown adequate skill after the training programme. The skill performance of mean score earlier guidance was ±2.85 and the standard deviation was ±17.79 while later intervention Mean score was ±7.47 and SD was ± 46.67. The mean difference was ± 4.62. The calculated ‘t’ value ± 10.34 which was larger value than critical value i.e., ± 2.05 which illustrates that highly significant at the 0.05 level. From the findings of the study, it can be concluded that training programme was effective in improving the knowledge and skill regarding bandaging techniques among paramedical students.

Attitudes, patterns and awareness on the use of self-medication and non-doctor prescription methods among undergraduate medical, nursing and physiotherapy students of a tertiary care setting in south Gujarat

Background: According to WHO Self-medication can be defined as the use of drugs to treat self-diagnosed disorders, or the intermittent or continued use of a prescribed drug for chronic or recurrent disease or symptoms. Aim &amp; Objective: To assess and improve the level of awareness regarding self-medication non-prescription medicines and over the counter drugs, to assess the prevalence and determinants of self-medication practices among undergraduate students. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study design was used to carry out a study at tertiary care centre. Methods and Material: Sociodemographic characteristics, self-medication knowledge and general questions on self-medication were asked from study participants. Statistical analysis used: SPSS software version 26. Self-medication knowledge was scored and categorized as excellent/good and poor knowledge. Comparison of knowledge scores among medical, nursing and physiotherapy students was done using ANOVA test. Results: The prevalence of OTC drug usage was found out to be 304(79.4%). Highest prevalence was noted amongst medical students i.e., 186(83.4%) followed by nursing and physiotherapy students which were similar at 55(73.3%) and 63(74.4%) respectively. Mean knowledge scores of MBBS, nursing and physiotherapy students showed significant results with F-statistic value of 21.63 (p=0.00). Conclusions: Self-medication happens to be a common practice among medical and paramedical students.

A Study on Smartphone Addiction and Its Behavioral and Health Hazards Among Paramedical Students of Devdaha Medical College and Research Institute

A Study on Smartphone Addiction and Its Behavioral and Health Hazards Among Paramedical Students of Devdaha Medical College and Research Institute

Fonksiyonel Antrenmanlar Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulu Erkek Paramedik Öğrencileri Üzerinde Etkili midir?

In this study, it was aimed to examine the effects of functional training applied for eight weeks on the body composition and some physical fitness parameters of male volunteer paramedic students studying at a university's health services vocational schools. In order to determine the effects of functional training applied for eight weeks on body composition (body weight, height, body fat percentage, body mass index), standing long jump, flexibility, push-ups, sit-ups, speed and balance parameters, a pre-test-post-test protocol was applied and the difference between the two measurements was calculated. Normality and T-Tests were used in the analysis of all parameters. Significance was determined at the p

Investigating the relationship between emotional intelligence and self-esteem with educational performance in paramedical students

BackgroundEmotional intelligence means the "ability" of a person to express, recognize, and manage "emotions" in themselves and others. Self-confidence means seeing oneself as capable, competent, lovable, and unique. Emotional intelligence can be effective in advancing goals for a person. Academic performance is one of the important indicators in student evaluation, which can also measure the extent to which a person has achieved the goal of acquiring knowledge. The aim of this study was to investigate the emotional intelligence of paramedical students of Hamedan University of Medical Sciences and its relationship with their academic performance. MethodsThe present study is a cross-sectional study of correlation. And it was done on 300 students of the School of Medical Sciences, who have passed at least two semesters of their studies and were selected by random sampling. In this study, students' demographic information was collected and Shering's standard questionnaire was used for emotional intelligence, Rosenberg's self-esteem questionnaire was used. ResultsThere was a positive and significant relationship between students' academic performance and self-esteem (p ≥ 0.01). The results of the study also showed that there was no significant relationship between students' academic performance and emotional intelligence (p = 0.01). ConclusionThe results of our research showed that among the predicted variables, only self-esteem was able to predict academic performance in students. Self-esteem is the best predictor of academic performance.

Do medical and paramedical students have a better awareness regarding oral health practices and orthodontic treatment? A KAP study

oral health is the most important for the wellbeing of the patient. But it is being neglected in the developing and the underdeveloped countries and malocclusion being the third most commonly occurring dental anomaly. Medical and paramedical students have been found to be the point of contact the community on a large scale. Hence, the present study was carried out to evaluate the awareness regarding oral health and orthodontic treratment in KIMS College. A validated self-administered questionnaire, pertaining to demographic data, awareness of oral health knowledge regarding orthodontics as a specialty were included. A total of 42 questions included in the study. The answers from the students were recorded as Yes or No on a 2-point Likert scale.Significantly higher proportions (70.7%) of the dental students were aware of the oral health practices, Orthodontic treatment and the purpose of orthodontic treatment followed by the, medical students. Female students opined with a greater frequency (70.8%) that irregular teeth have a negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life compared to male students. The Dental students have more knowledge than the health care workers on awareness of oral health practices regarding the use of mouthwashes, flossing technique etc. and also regarding the orthodontic treatment and its importance.

Social media addiction - A threat to human society

Utilizing the technology made our life very easier and brought the globe in our hand which has got both pros and cons. Young generation is more of techno oriented than the values that makes them to be depending on the social medias easily that affects the domains of health. A study was conducted to assess the Social media addiction among the paramedical students. Quantitative research approach with non experimental, descriptive research design was used. Non probability convenient sampling technique was used to select 140 para medical students who fulfills the inclusion criteria. Self administered structured questionnaire was used. Modified social media addiction likert scale was used with 20 items. Findings of the study shows that vast majority (103(74%)) of the students were addicted to the social media. To conclude, it is the high time for the policy-makers to restrict on this and make provision to improve the interaction skills.

Mass Casualty Incident Commander Decision-Making Models: Novice vs. Expert Decision Making

Introduction: Managing a mass-casualty incident (MCI) challenges commanders in the pre-hospital phase. Exploring the differences between the decision-making processes of novice and expert commanders can reveal how to improve training. This study aims to compare the decision-making processes between paramedic students and veteran paramedics. Methods: Data from eight MCI field simulations of paramedic students with no experience, and one simulation of a veteran paramedic were collected. Results: In the first phase of the simulation, both the students and the veteran paramedic followed the MCI protocol. From the second phase, the paramedic students mostly responded to received cues, while the veteran paramedic initiated actions without preliminary cues. Discussion: The veteran paramedic initiates actions and utilizes "considered" decision-making process earlier than the students, that frequently acted in response to cues. Although these results are based on a small sample, this study indicates a difference between novice and expert commanders’ decision-making processes.

Influences on paramedic prescribing: student and prescriber perspectives.

Paramedic prescribing has been permitted in legislation from 2018. In 2019 one of the first cohorts of paramedic prescribers in the country was invited to share their experiences, thoughts and perceptions around the new and evolving role of paramedic prescribing practice. To explore the opinions of student and newly qualified paramedic prescribers regarding the impact and effectiveness of paramedic independent prescribing on their clinical practice. A qualitative study was undertaken within the North East of England with a group of experienced paramedics undertaking non-medical prescribing education. A focus group and dyad interview were undertaken with a purposive sample of paramedics recruited from a higher education institution providing V300 independent and supplementary prescribing education. The focus group was undertaken with paramedics on the non-medical prescribing (NMP) programme of study. The dyad interview was undertaken with participants once qualified as prescribers, and actively prescribing. The focus group and interview were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and subjected to thematic analysis to identify key themes. A total of n = 7 and n = 2 paramedics undertook the focus group and dyad interview, respectively. Paramedics in this sample represented a range of paramedic practice areas. Paramedic NMP students noted four key themes around role, expectations, governance and opportunities and challenges in relation to prescribing practice. The returning sample of paramedics, now practising as prescribers, noted themes of organisational and infrastructure challenges, monitoring of prescribing practice and the evolution of paramedic roles. Paramedic prescribing is rapidly expanding and evolving into new clinical areas. As such, careful consideration should be given to not only the resourcing of prescribers as individuals, but also the wider organisational and technological support and structures needed to be in place to allow paramedic prescribers to fulfil their roles and utilise their advanced practice skills.

응급구조(학)과 학생들의 COVID-19 감염예방에 미치는 영향 요인

응급구조(학)과 학생들의 COVID-19 감염예방에 미치는 영향 요인