Article Text
PDF
Abstract
Background The NIHR HTA funded RAndomised trial of ParamedIc Delivered FICB for hip fracture (RAPID2) aims to test the safety, clinical and cost-effectiveness of paramedics providing fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) as pre-hospital pain relief for patients with suspected hip fracture. A vital part of this trial is the recruitment of paramedics to undergo training to safely and competently deliver FICB. This poster outlines the challenges and strategies employed in recruiting 44 paramedics at one RAPID2 site.
Challenges
Finding an acceptable form of communication that is regularly accessed by paramedics.
Increased service demand during the training period, resulting in:
paramedics having to complete RAPID2 training in their own time (no abstractions)
increased fatigue and reduced morale
Maintaining interest and engagement following initial expressions of interest.
Methods Recruitment was led by a RAPID2 site research paramedic, employing strategies as follows.
Using a range of communication methods e.g., email (organisation or personal), text, WhatsApp, face-to-face, posters, noticeboard at station, newsletters.
Regular face-to-face contact by a RAPID2 Research Paramedic at the site, including ‘drop in’ sessions.
Promotion of the rationale for the trial and the benefits it may bring to patient care, alongside CPD opportunities.
Providing overtime payments for time spent undertaking RAPID2 training.
Incorporating e-learning in accessible formats to enable paramedics to complete training at a time that suits them.
Providing multiple face-to-face training sessions on different days and at different times to facilitate a variety of shift patterns.
Result The trial was well received, and we gained 49 expressions of interest (from a pool of 100 paramedics), most of whom have begun training.
Conclusion By adapting to circumstances and employing a range of engagement and promotion strategies, paramedic recruitment goals have been reached. These strategies could be adopted in other trials.