After the stabbings of two paramedics last year, do more measures need to be taken to ensure the safety of ambulance staff?
@Sharp.scratch_
The story of the horrific attack on paramedics Deena Evans and Michael Hipgrave whilst doing a routine welfare check has caused shockwaves throughout the healthcare community. It’s a huge relief that they both survived and a pleasant surprise that they have both returned back to the job. It’s safe to say that these two people are nothing short of extraordinary.
Unfortunately, this case is a stark reminder of the dangers that paramedics and ambulance staff face whilst on duty.
Statistics of assaults on ambulance staff is on the rise. By September 2020, East Midlands Ambulance Service had listed:
- 208 physical assaults
- 19 sexual assaults
- 297 verbal abuse incidents
- 37 incidents involving weapons including firearms, knives, razor blades and scissors
It’s comforting to know that there are things already in place to help crews who ever find themselves in that situation. Whilst I cannot speak for other ambulance trusts, in EMAS ambulances, there are several conveniently placed rubber strips connected to the cameras in the ambulance. Once any of these strips are pressed, the cameras begin recording. It is accompanied by a loud warning that recording is taking place as a way to deter the perpetrator. If the case of these paramedics is anything to go by, they can expect up to 9 years in jail and a further 5 years on licence.
On every radio, there is a red panic button. When pressed, it is an immediate sign that someone is in serious danger and will receive a near immediate response.
It is also common practice for crews to request that police attend a scene before them. If the patient is previously known to be violent or if it’s a crime scene (for example, a stabbing) it’s only sensible for them to take steps to protect themselves. And, of course, all perpetrators of violence are subject to arrest, conviction, fines and possible jail time.
Speaking with my Practice Educator, he has had experiences in which he has been attacked by patients. With a military background, he certainly wasn’t floored by an aggressive and drunk student, but that is certainly no excuse for him to be attacked whilst doing his job. There should never be a point where a member of an ambulance crew should be fighting or be in fear for their lives.
I feel I must mention that this isn’t the story of every frontline member of the ambulance service. In fact, there are many who have never experienced much more than verbal aggression from a sick patient or a concerned loved one. But the story of these brave paramedics has brought to the forefront just how common it is for healthcare professionals to be victims of assault.
Something needs to change.
Sources: Sky news, WMAS, EMAS
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