An In-Depth Mixed-Method Study on Stress Exposure and Coping Strategies in Civilian and Military Prehospital Emergency Personnel from a Systemic Perspective

Abstract

Introduction:

Although prehospital emergency care in a civilian versus military context may differ in terms of working conditions and injuries, in both contexts the exposure to stressful and extreme events are present. Besides the continuous reports of post-traumatic stress symptoms, an alarming increase of burnout and suicide in (emergency) physicians is recognized as well. However, most of the research on this topic is either retrospective or peri-recovery, which might have an impact on the availability of information with regard to causes and underlying processes. Hence, in the current study, we conducted an in-depth study of well-functioning emergency caretakers, studying their profile while including their perspective on both their professional and personal context and the interconnectedness with their operational performance.

Method:

We used a mixed method approach, combining the results of a quantitative questionnaire and a thematic analysis of 23 in-depth semi-structured interviews to gain additional qualitative information. We interviewed well-functioning and operating prehospital emergency professionals, recruited in three different settings, i.e., a military hospital, a military Special Operations Surgical Team, and a civilian hospital in the capital city.

Results:

The quantitative part showed a preference for task-oriented coping. However, the interviews broadened this result, showing how the personnel are continuously seeking to find a balance between emotional connection and disconnection. Several risk-factors for mental injury were detected and the support and recognition from both the personal and professional environment showed to be crucial in finding a balance between job passion and the sacrifice of one's personal life.

Conclusion:

The interviews showed that a variety of interrelated underlying professional and personal factors are related with how emergency personnel perceive and cope with stress events. A systemic approach to prevent mental health problems is highly recommended.