Factors affects the performance of red crescent paramedics, Bisha, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Context: Saving lives is the ultimate purpose of the Red Crescent paramedics. It is crucial to enable safe, effective, and efficient performance of paramedics globally. In Saudi Arabia, the Red Crescent faces at least over 280,000 cases every year. Aims: Therefore, this study aims to address the factors affecting the performance of the Red Crescent paramedics. Methods and Material: Descriptive qualitative study and all data processed were analyzed using thematic analysis. Settings and Design: In total, 31 paramedic staff in Bisha city were invited to participate in this descriptive qualitative study. Among them, 11 paramedics agreed to participate in an in-depth semi-structured interview. Results: The findings of the research indicated three themes. The first theme was a lack of awareness in society, with three sub-themes: types of emergency calls, the crowd that gathers at the incident location, and people interruptions. Theme 2 was the long distance and road obstacles, and other factors that affect the paramedics were the third theme. Conclusions: Policymakers and the community should obtain a clear understanding of the Red Crescent paramedic interventions to help to create policies, legislation, and guidelines suitable for the needs of paramedics.

Keywords

• ambulance
• emergency medical services
• paramedics