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Decision-making processes when paramedics refer low acuity patients away from hospital: a scoping review
Authors: K Sheffield, P O'Meara, G Verrinder
Number of views: 639
Background
Paramedic practice faces increasing service demand with decision-making and referral pathways needing to change.
Patients with low acuity clinical presentations do not necessarily require ambulance transport to an emergency
department, and previous studies show alternative referral pathways can be effective, safe and efficient. With limited
previous research, decision-making processes within the context of referring low acuity patients, need to be further
examined.
Objectives
To examine the literature related to paramedic decision-making when referring low acuity patients to alternative care
services, instead of transporting to hospital.
Methods
In this scoping review, the literature between 2005 and 2015 of service providers was examined. Key search terms
were developed to search four databases and Internet search engines.
Results
Four studies were specifically related to decision-making. A further nine studies on the broader topic of paramedics
referring low acuity patients to alternative medical services were included in this review.
Conclusions
Key factors including clinical experience, education, protocol use, referral processes, and holistic healthcare
approaches all influence decision-making of paramedics when referring low acuity patients away from hospital.
Further research into these factors is required to understand how they influence and interact with each other.