Alba Ripoll-Gallardo, Elisa Scarpolini, Giacomo Colzani, Roberto Biella, Ilaria Offredi, Roberto Di Silvestre, Claudia Giannotti, Giuseppe Maria Sechi, Roberto Fumagalli, Rita E Fioravanzo, Riccardo Stucchi
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objectives: The aims of this study were to explore the knowledge of EMS physicians (EMSPs) on the legal aspects related to the management of prehospital psychiatric emergencies, assess their degree of comfort, and measure their perceived communication skills.
Methods: A survey was distributed to the 376 EMSPs working in the prehospital setting in Lombardy, Italy. Knowledge of medico-legal aspects was measured through multiple-choice questions; the Comfort Score (CS) and perceived Communication Skills Score (CSS) were calculated using Likert Scale questions. CS ranged from 11 points (lowest) to 44 (highest); CSS ranged from 8 points (lowest) to 32 (highest).
Results: A total of 272 EMSPs answered the survey (RR= 72.3%); 45.2% were women. Mean age was 45.76 years (SD 8.8). Mean percentage of correct knowledge test answers was 52.4 (SD 12.3); 81.3% believed to have little knowledge of the Italian legislation regarding this topic. Mean CS was 29.3 (SD 5.5); mean CSS was 19.1 (SD 3.9). A higher percentage of correct answers in the knowledge test was associated with lower CS (P = 0.019). Higher self-appraised knowledge of the Italian legislation was associated with higher CS (P < 0.001) and higher CSS (P < 0.001).
Conclusions: These findings should prompt policy makers to ensure proper training and support for EMSPs in the matter of prehospital psychiatric emergency management.
期刊介绍:
Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness is the first comprehensive and authoritative journal emphasizing public health preparedness and disaster response for all health care and public health professionals globally. The journal seeks to translate science into practice and integrate medical and public health perspectives. With the events of September 11, the subsequent anthrax attacks, the tsunami in Indonesia, hurricane Katrina, SARS and the H1N1 Influenza Pandemic, all health care and public health professionals must be prepared to respond to emergency situations. In support of these pressing public health needs, Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness is committed to the medical and public health communities who are the stewards of the health and security of citizens worldwide.