Infection prevention and control among paramedics: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Pre-hospital emergency care
• Infection prevention and control
• Paramedic education

Background:

• Paramedics face significant infectious disease exposure risks in out-of-hospital settings.
• The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical role of paramedics in infection prevention and control (IPC).
• Limited research exists on IPC practices among out-of-hospital healthcare professionals, including paramedics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on paramedics' knowledge and awareness of IPC.
• To identify gaps and challenges in IPC practices within the paramedic profession.
• To inform strategies for enhancing IPC among paramedics.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.
• Literature search focused on studies evaluating IPC knowledge, awareness, and practices in paramedics.
• Six relevant studies were identified and included in the review.

Main Results:

• IPC is recognized as important by paramedics, but compliance with recommended practices, especially hand hygiene, is low.
• Studies consistently indicate a need for increased education and training on infectious diseases for paramedics.
• A gap exists between the perceived importance of IPC and actual practice.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence indicates suboptimal compliance with IPC practices among paramedics.
• There is a clear need to enhance IPC education, training programs, and foster a stronger IPC culture within the paramedic profession.
• Improving IPC adherence is essential to mitigate healthcare-associated infections in pre-hospital and community settings.