Psychosocial Impact of a pandemic upon ambulance personnel [COVID-19]
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Psychosocial, Relational and Emotional Consequences of Occupational Trauma Exposure During and Following A Pandemic: Insights from NHS Emergency Ambulance Personnel in England
IRAS ID
282650
Contact name
Leo McCann
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
In summary, this study intends to explore the psychosocial, emotional and relational consequences of occupational trauma exposure during and following the pandemic, covid-19 upon emergency ambulance personnel. To date, globally, there has been very little qualitative study of the impact of psychological distress and trauma within ambulance populations as individuals or as a collective group. Indeed, there is even less known in this area in terms of disasters or crises such as a pandemic. Yet, understanding such an impact and how it affects psychosocial and emotional wellbeing is critical, particularly as prior research has identified that ambulance staff are at great risk of developing occupational-related mental ill health due to depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). \n\nBecause of the extremely limited published data, research and knowledge within this specific occupational field of emergency ambulance work, this proposed study intends to use qualitative methods (semi-structured interviews) with those currently working within the profession, to gain a depth of understanding of their experiences of working at the frontline during the pandemic.\n\nThe study intends to disentangle the complexities around aspects of poor mental health in terms of psychological distress from a psychosocial, emotional and relational perspective, to highlight for example, cultural and emotional norms and beliefs that may contribute to emotional suppression and avoidance, which are of significant concern to the development of PTSD. \n\nIt is envisaged that 20-40 telephone interviews will be conducted with participants at two points; during the pandemic, and within the three months after the peak of the pandemic. Depending upon the data, it may be helpful to undertake additional follow-up interview to ascertain the impact upon staff and how they are being supported. \n\nTo provide transparency to the study, the principle investigator (me) will also include a reflective piece of her observations, thoughts and experiences during and after the pandemic. This is in recognition of her role as paramedic (although not currently operational) and to highlight any potential biases that this could bring to interpretation of the data. \n\nData will be analysed by the PI using manual thematic analysis. No computer software will be used. \n\nThis research will contribute to the field by providing a unique exploration of the multifaceted, detailed life-world experiences from those currently working within the NHS Ambulance Services in England. It will provide an understanding of the emotional, psychosocial and relational difficulties that may be experienced during and following the pandemic response, as well as the supportive benefits that may ensue. \n\nThrough analysis of the data, the study ultimately seeks to highlight organisational recommendations for promoting and supporting the psychosocial and emotional wellbeing of ambulance personnel during and after large scale incidents, disasters, or crises such as the pandemic. \n\nThis research is relevant for those who are exposed to traumatic events in the course of their employment, which specifically but is not limited to paramedics and ambulance employees, emergency healthcare professionals, fire and police responders and others who provide care in an emergency, voluntary aid or rescue response capacity. \n\n\n\n\n\n
REC name
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REC reference
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