Mental health conditions are becoming more prevalent in today's society and it has been estimated that 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. The increase in mental health complaints has also affected the volume of calls to 999 in which paramedics are regularly called to address patients' mental health concerns. The complexities and nuances within mental health means that many paramedics feel underprepared when managing patients who are experiencing mental distress. Mental Health Care in Paramedic Practice is the first guide written specifically for paramedics to support them in understanding a range of different mental health conditions which they may come across during their practice.

Not only does the book provide key information on recognising and managing a range of conditions, but it also includes case studies written by paramedics with first-hand experience of managing mental health calls. It also includes a section on legislative changes and policy descriptions as well as interprofessional working. This book is essential for anyone wanting to better understand how to care for patients with mental health concerns within the prehospital setting, including both experienced and aspiring paramedics.

Reviews

This book gives the reader, the paramedic, so much more to think about in terms of additional care and support for the patient rather than the traditional management approach. It promotes a holistic approach to this patient group and will be a welcome addition to any paramedic's library.

-- Liz Harris - Head of Professional Standards, College of Paramedics

Dr Rolfe and David Partlow's Mental Health Care in Paramedic Practice takes the reader on a journey through regulatory and support systems relevant to prehospital emergency mental health care. The lived experiences of the authors and contributors ensure that factors important to paramedics are addressed. An important read for Emergency Medical Service employees wanting to build their knowledge and confidence.

-- Sasha Johnston - Academic Support Lead, Research Paramedic and DPhil candidate.

The assessment and management of mental health cases has become a core paramedic role the world over, with the number of presentations continuing to grow. We know that the care provided to a mental health case in the out-of-hospital setting can make a real difference to a patient's outcome, and that's why preparing paramedics for this critical role is essential. Mental Health Care in Paramedic Practice is a well-written text authored by experts in the field that covers a range of mental health presentations. It is well structured, easy-to-read and utilises case studies to bring the theory into practice. A must read for novice and experienced practitioners.

-- Professor Tony Walker ASM - Chief Executive Officer, Ambulance Victoria; Adjunct Professor, Department of Paramedicine, Monash University

A book that allows everyone, from student to expert, to learn more about the specific areas of mental health as paramedics. It includes sections on a wide range of mental health issues seen out of hospital and links to other disciplines, as well as common presentations and those not so common... A must book for all education programmes.

-- Stef Cormack - Senior Lecturer and Research Lead Paramedic Science, University of Wolverhampton



Book Information
ISBN 9781859599242
Author Ursula Rolfe
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Class Professional Publishing
Publisher Class Publishing Ltd