Paramedics in peril: New study to give Canada-wide picture of violence on the job
After 23 years on the job, Kelly Edwards still finds joy in being a paramedic. She describes it as unpredictable and exciting, with the opportunity to meet a lot of nice people. However, there is a darker side to the job that cannot be ignored.
Edwards recalls a harrowing experience when an agitated patient threw a piece of furniture at her partner, resulting in a broken arm. She herself has been hit, kicked, and spat on numerous times throughout her career. The verbal abuse and sexual harassment she faces daily only add to the challenges of the job.
Mathieu Roy, another seasoned paramedic, shares similar sentiments. He has faced threats of violence, including being told that his family would be killed. These experiences are not isolated incidents and are far too common in the field of paramedicine.
Marc-André Périard, vice-president for the Paramedic Chiefs of Canada, acknowledges that incidents of violence against paramedics are on the rise. However, there is a lack of standardized data collection and reporting systems, making it difficult to quantify the extent of the problem. Renée MacPhee, an associate professor at Wilfrid Laurier University, highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by paramedics.
Research from other countries suggests that paramedics often experience physical abuse, verbal abuse, and even sexual assault while on duty. These traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on the mental health of those in the profession, with studies showing a higher likelihood of developing suicidal behaviors among paramedics.
To address these issues, the Paramedic Chiefs of Canada are partnering with MacPhee’s research team to conduct a national survey on violence against paramedics. This groundbreaking survey aims to shed light on the realities faced by paramedics and pave the way for better protection and support.
The hope is that the results of the survey will serve as a catalyst for change, advocating for stricter penalties for those who assault healthcare workers and first responders. Bill C-321, which seeks to introduce harsher penalties for such offenses, has made progress in the House of Commons but still awaits royal assent.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a safer working environment for paramedics who dedicate their lives to caring for others. By raising awareness and implementing policy changes, we can ensure that paramedics are able to perform their vital work without fear of violence or harm.
