Excellence in Clinical Practice SA Ambulance Service Intensive Care Paramedics Extended Scope Pilot

SA Ambulance Service

Team: Jordan Pring

In June 2022, SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) commenced an Intensive Care Paramedic (ICP) Extended Scope Pilot. The aim was to pilot new skills to build a greater organisational understanding of how further developing ICP scope of clinical practice (SoCP) can produce improved patient outcomes.

11 experienced ICPs were selected to undertake a 2-week workshop where skills such as ultrasound, video laryngoscopy, arterial line monitoring, the use of sublingual ketamine (wafermine) and metaraminol were taught in a simulation heavy experience. There was also a significant focus on non-technical skills and how critical these are to teamwork and achieving great outcomes in challenging situations.

Data was collected every time interventions were used to build a repository of information to maintain oversight and to better inform decisions regarding the future of ICP SoCP. An airway registry was also piloted; this inspired a state-wide airway registry commencing on 1 January 2023.

These ICPs went on to become mentors for our latest group of ICP interns. These interns benefitted from the investment made in these clinicians which will in turn positively influence organisational culture and clinical leadership. SAAS view the pilot as a success and have already begun implementing some of the piloted innovations.