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Paramedic students’ perceptions of non-clinical experiences during placements
Abstract   Peer reviewed

Paramedic students’ perceptions of non-clinical experiences during placements

Chantal Perera, L Ross and R Bennett
Australasian Journal of Paramedicine, Vol.11(6), pp.31-32
Paramedics Australasia International Conference, 2014 (Gold Coast, Australia, 18-Sep-2014–20-Sep-2014)
2014
url
https://ajp.paramedics.org/index.php/ajp/article/view/138/155View
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Abstract

Public Health and Health Services
Introduction: Undergraduate paramedic students' participation in clinical placements is considered an essential component of paramedic education. Clinical placements are often cited as providing opportunities for students to apply knowledge and practice clinical skills. Clinical placements also serve to inform students about the realities of the paramedic profession. The purpose of this study was to identify non-clinical themes described by students on clinical placement. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional methodology, using online discussion forums to elicit non-clinical themes encountered by students during placements. A convenience sample of 116 second year Bachelor of Emergency Health (Paramedic) students from Monash University participated in the study. A thematic analysis of the online posts revealed three main themes based on the frequency of discussion: dealing with death, logistical issues and interpersonal skills. Results: In describing their experiences of these themes, students identified clinical placements as an important extension of their higher education: 'At uni we practice compressions on mannequins….but communicating with the family of the deceased was something I never practiced in scenarios'. This study demonstrates that a variety of non-clinical themes emerge from involvement in clinical placements. Interpersonal communication skills, the ability to manage a case in a logistical sense, and coping styles pertaining to death and dying were identified by students as important facets of their practice, and as potentially impacting upon their perception of the role of a paramedic in the community. Conclusion: Educators may use these results to better inform and prepare students for the realities of paramedic practice

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