Implementing Prehospital Ultrasound at the Saudi Red Crescent Authority: Perceived Barriers and Training Needs

Abstract

Maher Alsulami,1– 3 Yasir Almukhlifi,1,2 Adnan Alsulami,1,2 Ziyad F Al Nufaiei,1,2 Abdullah Alruwaili,4,5 Ahmed Alanazy4,5 1College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 2King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 3Educational Leadership Program, School of Education, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; 4College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia; 5King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Maher Alsulami, Department of Emergency Medical Services, College of Applied Medical Sciences- Jeddah King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Mail Code 6610 P.O.Box.9515, Jeddah, 21423, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tel +966,566,244,421 Ext 46,087, Email [email protected]: This study examines the inherent barriers to implementing prehospital ultrasound within the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) in Saudi Arabia.Methods: A qualitative study was conducted to explore the perceived barriers, mode of transportation, ultrasound familiarity, and self-efficacy level of relevant stakeholders in implementing the prehospital ultrasound in SRCA. Data was collected via surveys and interviews with 24 SRCA paramedics/EMTs, 4 SRCA station administrators, and two hospital physicians to further examine the inherent barriers of implementing the prehospital ultrasound.Results: Thematic analysis revealed the main barriers were costs of ultrasound equipment, environmental factors affecting image capture, and lack of training in ultrasound skills and interpretation. Administrators and physicians also noted concerns about machine portability and technical maintenance. Stakeholders agreed ultrasound could improve trauma diagnosis if barriers were addressed through extensive training and protocols. In prehospital care setting, the two main modes of transportation are “stay and play”, involving on-scene interventions before transport, and “load and go”, prioritizing rapid transport to the hospital, with the choice depending on various factors. An overwhelming 96% of paramedics/EMTs preferred a ‘stay and play’ approach to stabilize patients before transport, while 75% of administrators preferred ‘load and go’ for rapid transport to hospitals. 62.5% of paramedics were familiar with ultrasound, but only 20.8% had previously used it.Conclusion: This study provides important insights into stakeholder perspectives on the implementation of prehospital ultrasound within the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. The findings can guide efforts to implement appropriate ultrasound use through tailored training programs and enhanced coordination across groups, aimed at improving trauma outcomes.Keywords: prehospital ultrasound, out of hospital ultrasound, Saudi Arabia, paramedics

Keywords

• prehospital ultrasound
• out of hospital ultrasound
• saudi arabia
• paramedics