Drawing on extensive ethnographic research, this fascinating book highlights the challenges and contradictions faced by neophyte paramedics as they transition from a classroom setting into day-to-day clinical work placements. Shining a spotlight on the subculture of the UK Ambulance Service, as well as the paramedic profession more widely, it examines critically how language, cultural meanings, institutionalised rules, professional identity, and working practices determine key behaviours within paramedic practice, providing readers with insight into the profession not seen by members of the public or portrayed by media representations. The book draws on work of seminal authors and experts in the field to provide a sociological perspective on this not only challenging but also, at times, chaotic professional environment. Supported by fieldnotes as well as interviews with students and paramedics, the book will be essential reading for any student on the path to becoming a paramedic. It will also be valuable reading for those within the service who wish to better understand the hidden cultural and social components that lie beneath the practice itself.
“This book allows readers access to the reality of student paramedic life, which is essential in considering a career as a paramedic. Highly recommended.” Kath Jennings, Section Lead for Paramedic Science programmes, School of Health Sciences, University of Greenwich, UK “An excellent text and invaluable resource […] A must have publication.” Aidan Ward, Professional Lead: Paramedic Programmes, University of Northampton, UK “[This book is] detailed and informative, providing a real world view of what being a student paramedic entails and incorporates good advice for every element of the journey.” Tracey Brickell, Deputy Course and Placement Lead, University of Portsmouth, UK The second edition of the bestselling The Student Paramedic Survival Guide 2e gives vital information and advice to help you succeed in your education and become a registered paramedic. The book prepares you to make the transition into your first paramedic job by following a clear and helpful 5-part structure: 1. Is this the right career for me? 2. Preparing to apply 3. Making the most of your academic study 4. Placement: preparing for it and making the most of it 5. Transition to registration To equip you with insights into what studying to be a paramedic is really like, the book is packed full of comments and case studies from students, paramedics, practice educators, academics and brand new to this edition – family members. Their expertise and experience will be invaluable as you study and prepare for practice. The book also includes advice on making the most of your preferred learning style and guidance on how to look after yourself when you encounter traumatic events. Written with the help of students, practice staff and academics from a variety of higher education institutions, this guide for prospective and current student paramedics is the essential resource to support your journey through the excitement, challenges and realities of being a student paramedic on a higher education programme. Amanda Blaber is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences University of Brighton, UK, for the BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science course, Honorary Fellow of the College of Paramedics and Senior Fellow of Higher Education Academy.
Paramedic Principles and Practice in the UK is a key textbook designed to support paramedicine students in this country throughout their studies. The volume takes a practical approach, with case histories covering a broad range of clinical presentations and treatments, all incorporating a patient-centric perspective that acknowledges the longer patient journey. This must-have textbook will not only arm readers with technical knowledge and expertise, but also with the non-technical principles of the profession, developing future paramedics who are able to provide a safe and effective management plan in the out-of-hospital environment. - Aligned to UK paramedicine curricula - More than 40 detailed case studies covering essential pathologies most commonly seen by UK paramedics, as well as less typical scenarios - Evidence-based clinical decision-making models to support paramedics in practice - Essential physiological concepts to help readers bridge the gap from principles to practice - Focus on the wellbeing of both the patient and the paramedic - Useful appendices including medications commonly encountered in paramedic settings
Updated in line with contemporary healthcare practice, this bestselling textbook introduces the theories, evidence and research behind effective student supervision and assessment. By developing your understanding of how people learn, the book enables you to facilitate student learning and development while also building your skills in a wide range of different aspects of assessment. Inter-professional in scope, the book is essential reading for anyone preparing for or undertaking a supervisory role in nursing, midwifery, social care and the allied health professions. Key Features and updates: Reflects the move away from the mentorship role to learning supervisors and assessors Includes a new chapter on the application of simulation in healthcare education Fully updated with the latest research, policies and guidance, with reference to both the NMC and HCPC Action and reflection points consolidate your learning and help develop your own supervisory style
This stunningly well-written collection of short stories and poetry from across the UK gives an insight into the broad and complex role of the paramedic: from the pop of the sternum as chest compressions are started on someone who is dying, through to supporting the delivery of a pink, crying baby into the world. These accounts capture the life and death decisions made in emergency situations, the diverse calls that define a paramedic's role and, above all, the resilience, humanity, and humour required to deliver care in some of the most challenging circumstances. Forty six authors lend their unique voices to this anthology, capturing the reality of the nights and days in the lives of those working in the ambulance service and beyond. Their stories paint a moving and honest portrait of one of the most demanding, and rewarding, roles in the NHS.
Practice-based education and placements are vital components of UK paramedic science programmes as they allow students to apply their university education, knowledge and theory to real life aspects of practice in the ambulance service. This book highlights the importance of the practice educator (PEd) role in supporting and assessing the learner during their practice-based education. Designed to serve as both an introductory resource as well as a text which can support your existing knowledge, Practice Education in Paramedic Science is a clear and easy-to-use guide for registered paramedics hoping to become practice educators as well as those already taking on board the practice educator role. The book offers a sound understanding of the practice educator role within the paramedic profession, highlighting important aspects such as student–practice educator interaction, learner assessment and reflection. Both authors are experienced practice educators themselves and offer a breadth of knowledge on the unique challenges and benefits of practice education whilst combining their expertise with established theories on coaching, leadership and mentoring. This book will be of interest to all healthcare professionals responsible for educating learners within practice as well as anyone undertaking practice-based education themselves. Key features of the book include: Multiple case scenarios Reflective points and questions Recognised theories and their application to practice education First-hand perspectives from learners and practice educators Where to find support for practice educators
Fundamentals of Pharmacology for Paramedics provides students with the insight and understanding of pharmacological essentials needed to respond effectively to the patients' needs. This textbook will help students improve, expand, and enhance their expertise and the overall health and wellbeing of their patients, while boosting their self-confidence as paramedics in the process. This textbook integrates the extensive knowledge of pharmacology into a workable and accessible plan of care that will help to improve patient care. The book also includes: Thorough introductions to pharmacology and how to use pharmaceutical, and prescribing reference guides Comprehensive explorations of the legal and ethical issues of pharmacology within paramedicine and the role of the paramedic in medicines management Practical discussions of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, drug formulations, and adverse drug reactions In-depth examinations of a wide variety of medicines, including analgesics, antibacterials, and medications used in the cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems Written for students of paramedicine, Fundamentals of Pharmacology for Paramedics would also prove an indispensable resource for practicing paramedics seeking a practical, one-stop reference on a challenging subject.
Leadership is a vital part of delivering high quality healthcare for all healthcare professionals. With the introduction of the NHS Leadership Academy, Leadership Framework and the Competency Framework there has never been a better time for paramedics to hone their leadership skills and expertise. This is the first book of its kind to demonstrate just how vital leadership skills are for all paramedics and explore how paramedics can lead in their everyday practice. Divided into two parts the book looks at both the context of contemporary leadership for paramedic practice and then the specific skills of leadership. The book includes chapters on: What is leadership and who does it? Communication skills & leadership Working as a team Decision making Conflict resolution Mentorship and preceptorship Each chapter includes case studies, examples and quotes from real life paramedic practice to show what good leadership looks like in everyday clinical settings. The book also features profiles of real paramedics that demonstrate the role that leadership plays for all practitioners from novice student paramedics through to specialist paramedic practitioners. Essential reading for student paramedics and practitioners alike. Contributors: Kevin Barrett, Amanda Y Blaber, Graham Harris, Paul Jones, Linda Nelson, Mel Newton, Caryll Overy, Marion Richardson, Paul Street and Surinder Walia. "The notion of Leadership within the United Kingdom's (UK) National Health Service (NHS) has without question been one which continues to draw debate amongst policy makers, executive officers, service users, professional bodies and regulators. This book explores the many paradigms in which the notion of Leadership plays an ever increasing role in the lives of healthcare professionals. Its interaction with summaries of leadership ideologies, along with the questions posed by the authors, allow students to delve into the role of leadership, illustrating the various ways in which strong leadership helps shape and improve patient/client outcomes. The book explores the many paradigms in which the notion of Leadership plays an ever increasing role in the lives of healthcare professionals. This publication is not only an essential read for student paramedics, but other healthcare students embarking upon a career within the healthcare setting. Along with student paramedics, this book will assist experienced paramedics and those responsible for educating and mentoring paramedic students. Drawing on a vast range of experience and knowledge from a number of contributors to the book, the text provides insightful and illuminating ideas and suggestions as to how the notion of Leadership helps practitioners develop their own knowledge and skills as they progress through their career to become registered healthcare professionals. I strongly recommend this book to those starting their careers as healthcare professionals." John DonaghyJohn Donaghy BSc (Hons), PgCert, FHEA, FCPara.Principal Lecturer & Professional Lead - Paramedic Science, University of Hertfordshire, UK.
