Paramedic Chiefs of Canada Release Position Statement on Violence to Paramedics

Paramedics face staggering rates of physical violence, threats and intimidation when they arrive on scene. For years, it was considered just part of the job. As post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and injury rates rise, the Paramedic Chiefs of Canada are sending the message: violence to Paramedics will not be tolerated. The Paramedic Chiefs of Canada (PCC) position statement outlines the situation, provides an assessment and statistics, and recommendations to deal with the serious issue of violence to Paramedics. Violence against Paramedics is unacceptable. The Paramedic Chiefs of Canada (PCC) supports a zero tolerance position on physical and verbal attacks on paramedics and support staff. Violence can include physical or verbal violence, bullying and threats, sexual assault and harassment. Physical violence most frequently includes pushing, punching, scratching, kicking, slapping, biting, or the use of weapons. Sources of violence include patients, family/friend, bystanders and colleagues.   Workplace violence experienced by Paramedic personnel has been linked to psychological injuries in the form of stress, anxiety and PTSD. It has not only a negative impact on the psychological and physical well-being of paramedic staff, but also affects their job motivation. Violence targeting paramedics serves to thereby jeopardizing the quality of patient care that the paramedic strive to deliver. It also leads to immense financial loss in the health sector. There is no ...
Source: JEMS Administration and Leadership - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: News Administration and Leadership Press Releases Source Type: news