Paramedics' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the use of personal protective equipment against COVID-19.

The risk of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) transmission in the confined mobile ambulance compartment is increased during aerosol-generating procedures and close proximity. Paramedics are encouraged to increase body-surface-isolation by donning additional personal protective equipment (PPE) during patient encounters. This study aimed to better understand paramedics' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to PPE use during the COVID-19 pandemic in the prehospital setting with a focus on mitigating risks associated with infection control.

Prehospital conversion of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia using the modified Valsalva maneuver: A case report.

The modified Valsalva maneuver (MVM) has never before been performed in the prehospital setting by the Hamad Medical Corporation Ambulance Service (HMCAS) clinicians in the State of Qatar. Currently, their clinical practice guidelines (CPG) prescribe the vagal maneuver (VM) using a 10 cc syringe as first-line therapy for patients presenting with symptomatic paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (pSVT). The effectiveness of the MVM in terminating pSVT compared to the traditional VM is well documented, although prehospital studies in this area are lacking.

Hospital Mortality Based on the Mode of Emergency Medical Services Transportation.

Objective: We assessed the presentations and outcomes of trauma patients transported by helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) versus ground emergency medical services (GEMS).

Methods: A retrospective analysis of trauma registry data at a level I trauma center was conducted for patients transported by GEMS and HEMS between 2011 and 2013. Data were analyzed and categorized based on the mode of transportation.

Comparison of two training programmes on paramedic-delivered CPR performance.

Objective: To compare CPR performance in two groups of paramedics who received CPR training from two different CPR training programmes.

Methods: Conducted in June 2014 at the Hamad Medical Corporation Ambulance Service, the national ambulance service of the State of Qatar, the CPR performances of 149 new paramedic recruits were evaluated after they had received training from either a traditional CPR programme or a tailored CPR programme. Both programmes taught the same content but differed in the way in which this content was delivered to learners.

Comparison of six different intubation aids for use while wearing CBRN-PPE: a manikin study.

Introduction: Respiratory failure following chemical exposure can be fatal and although supraglottic airway devices have been evaluated for use in the management of CBRN casualties' intubation remains the gold standard airway.

Methods: This is a randomised cross-over study involving 66 paramedic students utilising the following intubating aids bougie, stylet, McCoy laryngoscope, Airtraq™, intubating laryngeal mask (ILMA) and standard intubation. Each participant performed intubation with each device while wearing standard uniform and CBRN-PPE.

What is the optimal position of an intubator wearing CBRN-PPE when intubating on the floor: a manikin study.

Introduction: Prompt airway management following a CBRN incident is linked to improved patient survival. However, responding rescuers will have to wear CBRN-PPE and treat patients positioned on the floor which will adversely impact on intubation skill performance.

Methods: 48 final year paramedic students intubated manikin's positions in 4 different positions; on an ambulance trolley (60 cm of the floor), lying prone, kneeling and sitting.