Research protocol for delivering on the front line: a qualitative exploration of paramedics' experiences of providing pre-hospital maternity care in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Background and aim: Maternity patients form a small but significant portion of paramedical workload and this research aims to pragmatically explore East of England Ambulance Service paramedics' experiences of providing pre-hospital maternity care.

Methods: Through semi-structured individual interviews, participants' thoughts and feelings regarding obstetric confidence and competence will be explored. It will be investigated whether they think their training and equipment is adequate and what they would change about maternity patient management. Data will be thematically analysed and the findings used to improve paramedic training, with a view to improving their confidence and competence. In turn, this should improve patient experiences and outcomes.

Keywords: maternity; obstetrics; paramedics.