Achievement of student paramedic competency in out-of-ambulance settings

Abstract

Competency in key areas is required for job readiness for paramedics, and is monitored by preceptors through in-ambulance placements. Without preceptors, learners are unable to move forward with their training and diploma completion. To address this, an alternative model in community settings to provide students with effective learning opportunities could be explored. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an out-of-ambulance placement model on competency achievement for students in a 2-year primary care paramedic diploma programme at a Canadian college. One cohort of second-year students selfselected a hybrid model of placement, where 6 weeks of training were completed in ambulance and 6 weeks out of ambulance. Competencies were tracked and approved by preceptors, who were certified paramedics and other health professionals. Results were recorded using paramedic competency tracking software and analysed. Compared to traditional placement, the hybrid placement model resulted in a similar average number of competencies being achieved and provided unique opportunities for competency achievement across groups. A hybrid model of placement was shown to have comparable value to a traditional model in competency achievement.