Changing paramedic students' perception of people who self-harm
Ramluggun, Pras Freeman-May, Andrew Barody, Gabby Townsend, Chloe
Ramluggun, Pras
Freeman-May, Andrew
Barody, Gabby
Townsend, Chloe
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Abstract
Aim:
This study aimed to identify whether paramedic students' perceptions of patients who self-harm changed following an educational intervention.
Background:
Self-harm is a major public health concern with an increasing number of incidents being reported in England. Paramedics are often the first contact for those who self-harm and antipathy to these patients among caregivers, including paramedics, has been reported. Negative attitudes to patients who self-harm from health professionals is a considerable barrier to their care. Education on self-harm for paramedics has been historically inadequate, even though it can potentially improve attitudes and how these practitioners engage with those who self-harm.
Method:
A pre- and post-survey analysis was undertaken to examine whether any identified unsympathetic perceptions of paramedic students (n=30) towards patients who self-harm would decrease following an educational intervention, using a validated questionnaire measuring attitudes to self-harm.
Results:
Perceptions of people who self-harm were generally moderately negative prior to the educational intervention, with a significant drop in negative attitudes after it was completed. A survey showed that this drop was also mostly sustained 10 months later.
Conclusion:
Educational interventions may help to reduce negative perceptions of patients who self-harm in paramedic students.
Abstract published with permission.