Paramedics' perceptions of patients who use alcohol
Poppy Potts, Rachel BizleyBackground:
Alcohol use is a significant public health problem. Paramedics' perceptions of patients' alcohol use and their role in alcohol-related public health need to be understood to inform practice, improve public health and potentially reduce strain on ambulance services.
Aims:
This study aimed to identify paramedics' perceptions of patients who use alcohol.
Methods:
A narrative literature review examined current evidence.
Findings:
Five themes emerged: workload; significance/impact; training; confidence/adequacy; and attitudes. Paramedics viewed alcohol-related call-outs as a major public health strain. Confidence declined beyond basic conversations, with mixed views on role legitimacy and often negative attitudes shaped by limited training, resources and patient behaviour.
Conclusion:
Alcohol-specific training, improved referral pathways and further research could help ameliorate paramedics' perceptions of patients who use alcohol and consequently improve care.