A89Paramedic placements: Let’s not forget the non-technical skills
Authors: Spencer Jess , Hamilton Carrie , Rimmer Jess , Clarke Channine 
Published: October 2023

Simulated placements for paramedics are increasing, with some organizations approaching these placements innovatively, focussing on combining undergraduate paramedic facilitation skills with peer reviewing skills [1]. Other HEIs focus on clinical skills with manikin scenario-simulations and on virtual reality driven learning. Effective communication skills are crucial for paramedics and simulated placements provide an opportunity to practice these skills. There is a heavy focus on communication skills in the HCPC Standards of Proficiency for Paramedics [2]; this, combined with our responsibilities to patients and their relatives means that rehearsal of these skills, are not overlooked in preference to technical skill acquisition.

A simulation-based education provider and an HEI, co-created a two-day simulated placement for 60 paramedic undergraduates. The scenario content was developed to reflect the broad client base paramedics interact with: patients, relatives, by-standers, other healthcare, and emergency service professionals, all from across the life span and from different cultural and social backgrounds. The scenario focus was: care, kindness and compassion, confidentiality and candour, supporting colleagues, de-escalation, safeguarding, inclusivity, and transgender and gender diversity. Scenario development was undertaken by a range of healthcare professionals, and co-produced with lay developers, people who had experienced paramedic intervention. Actors were coached in role depiction and escalation, briefed regarding the learning outcomes, and had the pre-requisite experience in debriefing and feedback skills.

Each learning outcome was scored by the students, for confidence and ability, in a pre-post evaluation. Overall students evaluated the placement as a meaningful learning opportunity. They felt able to consider their existing knowledge, then practice their skills and reflect on their attitudes. They described feeling better prepared for ‘real’ situations. Students reported the usefulness of being able to stop, discuss and restart/resume the simulation. Feedback from actors, peers and facilitators was described as an enhancement, and crucially, the co-production of the scenarios with lay developers, translating their ‘real’ experiences resonated with the students creating genuine, authentic learning opportunities.

Communicating is a vital paramedic skill; evidence demonstrates that these vital skills, done well, lead to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction, and a reduction of medical errors [3]. Simulated placements are an essential ingredient in developing these skills and the involvement of actors and experienced facilitators provides a safe environment for students to practice. This initiative provides valuable insights into the co-production of scenarios (with users) and partnerships between HEIs and external simulation-based education providers.

Authors confirm that all relevant ethical standards for research conduct and dissemination have been met. The submitting author confirms that relevant ethical approval was granted, if applicable.