ABSTRACTS
Prehospital Video: Expectations and Needs Among Swedish Ambulance CliniciansAuthor: Hanna Maurin Söderholm, PhD | | Associate Authors: Alexandra Johansson, BScE, Elin Maxstad, MSc, Glenn Larsson, RN, PhD
Introduction In Sweden, there has been ongoing work to develop, test, and implement video in prehospital care across different situations (e.g., stroke consultations and referrals to self-care). Despite these efforts, major challenges remain with regard to their actual use among ambulance clinicians. Objective To better understand the perceived benefits, risks, needs, and usefulness of video consultation among Swedish ambulance clinicians. Methods We developed a web-based questionnaire consisting of 14 open- and closed-ended questions pertaining to demographics, video technology capabilities, relevant-use situations and patients, risks and benefits, and needs and requirements. It was distributed to all 21 regional ambulance organizations in Sweden. Reminders were sent out through professional organizations and social media communities. Questionnaire responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis. Results In all, 520 ambulance clinicians responded to the questionnaire. Of those, 12% had previous experience from using video in their clinical work. The majority (84%) were positive to using video in their clinical work. Ambulance clinicians with previous experience from using video were more positive than clinicians with no experience. The most relevant patient categories for video consultation included stroke, trauma, pediatric, and geriatric patients. Perceived risks included delay of patient care, difficulties to use, difficulties to access remote physician or expert, and lack of professional independence. Twenty-four percent thought the use of video should be regulated in guidelines, and 70% at their own need and discretion. Mobile technologies such as body-worn, cellphone, and tablet cameras were preferred. Ease of use, reliability, and structured training were reported as crucial. Respondents ranking body-worn cameras the highest reported threatening and violent situations as the most relevant for using video. Conclusion Previous work in other geographical settings has identified technical and collaborative challenges as well as barriers to implementation. Understanding end-users’ expectations, needs, and motivations are crucial when implementing new technology. The results from the survey highlights the importance of trialability and relative advantage as well as ease of use.
|
