HOW DOES DIRECT INVOLVEMENT WITH DISASTER RESPONSE IMPACT PSYCHOSOCIALLY ON PARAMEDICS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background:Research revealsthat paramedics that have been directly involved within disaster situations are more at risk of experiencing stress, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. This review aimed to examine how direct involvement in disaster response impacts psychosocially on paramedic and how this can be minimised. Method: A systematic literature search was undertaken. Electronic databases were searched according to strict eligibility criteria that included key word searches such as ?paramedics?, ?disaster? and ?post-traumatic stress?. Only studies published between 2000-2015 were included to prevent the inclusion of out of date research. Results: A thematic analysis of 11 eligible research studies highlighted a number of key themes around psychosocial impact, factors contributing to psychosocial impact and interventions to minimise PTSD risk. Conclusion:The findings reveal that PTSD is prevalent amongst paramedics who have been involved within disaster response and that greater organisational and cognitive support is needed.