Older patients’ perceptions of the Swedish ambulance service: A qualitative exploratory study

Background

As worldwide life expectancy increases, the Swedish Ambulance Service is likely to be affected by the demographic shift towards a larger proportion of older persons. An older population tends to increase the demand for ambulances, indicating a need to illuminate older patients’ perspective. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore older patients’ perceptions of the Swedish Ambulance Service.

Methods

This interview study employed a descriptive qualitative design with a phenomenographic approach in accordance with Dahlgren and Fallsberg.

Results

Three main descriptive categories emerged to describe the underlying conceptions in the interviews; A double-edged encounter, Trust is created by perceived competence, and Safety through accessibility in vulnerable situations.

Conclusion

Older patients described trust in ambulance clinicians as a prerequisite for feeling safe enough to share their feelings and allow a bodily examination. However, they also criticized the care provided because they questioned the need for certain actions.