The meaning of traumatic events as described by nurses in ambulance service

Ambulance personnel are working with the injured and dead and are therefore exposed to a variety of stressors that can lead to the development of physical, psychological and social reactions. Stress among ambulance personnel can be regarded as a natural behaviour and reaction when experiencing a traumatic event. The aim of this phenomenological study is to uncover the essence of traumatic events experienced by Swedish ambulance personnel. Knowledge about such events contributes to the awareness of risk for post-traumatic stress symptom and serves as a platform for developing measures to handle such stress. In this study, written stories from 52 of 223 ambulance nurses and ambulance technicians describing an experienced traumatic event, are analysed by the method of van Kaam. Findings indicate that the nurses and technicians have a strong identification with the victims and it is impossible to prepare for events that are unforeseen and meaningless. To handle the overwhelming feelings of identification, the personnel have to gain understanding through talking about those feelings. Therefore it is important that ambulance management, following stressful events, provide the opportunity and time for ambulance personnel to share their feelings. Teaching ways of decreasing identification and emotional involvement with the victim may also be an effective preventive measure.