Adrenal insufficiency: improving paramedic practice

Abstract

Abstract published with permission. Acute adrenal insufficiency, which includes Addisonian crisis, can lead to severe morbidity and even death if ineffectively managed. Unfortunately in the pre-hospital setting patients with acute adrenal insufficiency often receive sub-optimal care. The early administration of hydrocortisone in these cases is critical and significantly improves outcomes to the extent it can be life saving. Such therapy is part of current paramedic practice; however, there is evidence that hydrocortisone is rarely used in the pre-hospital setting. Ultimately, patients with acute adrenal insufficiency may currently be sub-optimally managed by paramedics. To combat this, this article will define the current optimal practice in this area and explain how an e-learning package will be used within North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust to educate paramedics in best practice in this area.