Critique Of A Paramedic Essay

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This essay will provide a detailed analysis and critique of the role of a Paramedic and the impact that they may have when dealing with palliative care patients who are at the end of their life and the patients significant others. The purpose of this essay is to analyse and explore the current theories and guidelines surrounding end of life care and how these can relate to Paramedic practice. It is also a Health and care Professions Council (HCPC) requirement that Paramedics are aware of varying cultures, equality and diversity and how this can impact upon their practice (Health and Care Professions Council 2014), the HCPC also states that Paramedics must ensure that they promote and protect the interests of their patients’ (Health and Care …show more content…

One key agency involved with patients suffering from a terminal illness is Macmillan Nurses, who provide specialist care for those suffering from a terminal illness both directly and indirectly, their role varies from administration of specific medicines which can help improve a patient’s wellbeing in their last few days to providing advice and support to the patient and their significant others (Skilbeck et al. 2002a). However, the role of Macmillan Nurses has been called into questions due to constant changes in policies relating to palliative care and improved access to palliative care services, it has been argued that they are not keeping up to date with changes and further training is needed to improve their skills and clarify their scope of practice in the community (Skilbeck et al. 2002b). Along with Macmillan Nurses there is also the role of a Hospice in some terminally ill patients care. A Hospice usually provides residential care for those requiring advanced and ongoing medical treatment, they can provide nursing care, medications and psychological and emotional to support to patients as well as supporting the patient’s significant others (Macmillan

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