International Emergency Nursing Vol. 66 January 2023
Advanced-level paramedics’ support needs for developing and
utilising competence

International Emergency Nursing Vol. 66 January 2023
Advanced-level paramedics’ support needs for developing and
utilising competence

Paramedic, Professional competence, Emergency medical services, Support, Emergency nursing, Leadership

Introduction: Paramedic competence plays a vital role in emergency medical services (EMS), as the pre-hospital setting demands a wide variety of competencies from paramedics. The aim of the study was to examine the support that advanced-level paramedics need from their supervisors to develop and utilise their competence.
Methods: Qualitative essay material was collected from a group of experienced advanced-level paramedics (n =41). The material was analysed with inductive content analysis.
Results: Twenty-eight sub-categories emerged, forming 6 categories further leading to the grouping of two main categories: 1) the enablement of human resource (HR) management and leadership; and 2) guidelines on how to operate EMS adequately.
Conclusions: Supervisors can and should support advanced-level paramedics in their competence utilisation and development. This can be achieved by enabling professional growth by recognising competencies and generating supportive leadership in EMS. Paramedics would also benefit from clear operative guidelines. Overall, supporting paramedics’ competence utilisation and development is strongly connected with leadership standards in daily practices.

Antti Tanninen, Anne Kouvonen, Hilla Nordquist

Elsevier Ltd.

January 2023

Sri Wahyuni

1755-599X

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English

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International Emergency Nursing Vol. 66 January 2023