In an introductory overview, the differences and similarities between emergency medicine in South Africa (SA) and the United Kingdom (UK), predominantly in the paramedical area of practice, are explored. The author discussed areas of interest, as well as a potential future direction. The current article focuses on the more prevalent similarities and differences identified. However, it is worth noting that not all trusts and/or organisations work identically regardless of country-specific differences. The author is a paramedic rescuer by background with over 12 years of experience in the medical field, and has lectured for 5 years. He has worked operationally and lectured in both SA and the UK; the discussion in the current article arises as a result of the differences he has encountered during his experience.
Background: Simulated practice using high fidelity has been shown to have significant benefits in the medical and nursing field. However, the benefits among paramedical and midwifery students are not well known. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore and compare the impact of Immersive Simulation Training (IST) on midwifery and paramedic students' confidence to perform a skill (basic life support) in real-life stressful and life-threatening scenarios. Design: A mixed-method approach with an explanatory sequential design was used. Setting and participants: Seventeen first year student midwives and paramedics were recruited from one Higher Education Institution. Measurements: A validated confidence questionnaire and focus groups were used to collect data. Findings: Students' confidence following IST was significantly improved when compared to confidence following conventional simulation training (CST); a statistically significant increase of 6.71 (95% CI, 3.57 to 9.84), p < 0.001. Additionally, five themes were identified; 'Needing a solid foundation', 'The role of peer support' and 'It is just not real' following CST and 'A steep learning curve' and 'A whole new world' following IST.
Conclusion:The study identified the important role of CST to establish a foundation but the need for escalation to IST to ensure deeper learning and preparedness for real life scenarios and should both be integrated in curricula.
Highlights Immersive simulation training can increase paramedic and midwifery students' confidence to perform life saving skills in real scenarios Conventional simulation training appears to be an important foundation for students to cement basic clinical skills The foundation training provided through conventional simulation must be escalated to enhance realism by utilising high fidelity environments, mannequins and psychological stressors to enhance student learning.
In this new monthly feature, the paramedic education team at Edge Hill University focuses on the clinical skills carried out by paramedics on the frontlines, highlighting the importance of these skills and how to perform them. In this month's issue, Rory McKelvin discusses best practice use of a combat application tourniquet.
In each issue, the paramedic education team at Edge Hill University focuses on the clinical skills carried out by paramedics on the frontline, highlighting the importance of these skills and how to perform them. Here, Rory McKelvin discusses haemostats; what they are, how they work, when and where to use them, and how to do so effectively.
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