Clinical reasoning amongst paramedics using nebulised β₂ agonists to treat acute asthma exacerbations: a qualitative study

Abstract

Abstract The heterogeneous nature of asthma results in a wide range of presentations during exacerbation. Despite UK pre-hospital management guidelines focusing on β₂ agonists, variables such as cause, severity, underlying health, comorbidities, and drug side effects can often make emergency treatment optimisation difficult. This article examines paramedics’ methods of observing, perceiving, interpreting, and treating asthma with β₂ agonists, often acting on limited information in rapidly evolving situations. We recruited paramedics from a single UK National Health Service ambulance Trust for qualitative semi-structured interviews. Responses underwent framework analysis to identify data similarities and differences. Fifteen qualitative interviews with paramedics revealed three main themes affecting patient management: clinician experience of presentation, adaptation of patient management approaches, and severity of side effects. Paramedics felt their ability to manage various asthma presentations was enhanced through guideline adaptation based on their own clinical experience and understanding of β₂ agonist side effects, allowing tailored responses based on a set of reinforcing factors. Inductive analysis revealed additional complexities within these themes, such as anxiety and diabetes, which may influence β₂ agonist administration and result in multiple care pathways being initiated during exacerbation. Paramedic care mirrors asthma’s complexity, accounting for a range of characteristics. A dynamic, critically thought approach enables patient management to be based on the presenting conditions rather than strict adherence to a single algorithm. Comprehending the complexities and variables in treatment can be crucial to how paramedics rationalise their treatment and optimise the care provided.