Occupational injury among paramedics: examining the distribution and determinants of paramedic work-related injury

Paramedics are frequently exposed to stressors at work that greatly increase their risk of injury. The simplistic manner used to monitor and measure the occurrence of injury in paramedics is unable capture the complexity of their work environment. Consequently, our understanding of the true nature and drivers of the injury problem is limited. This research presents an innovative and novel approach to improve paramedic injury surveillance by incorporating broader epidemiological surveillance methods with systems thinking concepts. This holistic approach identified the influence of contributory factors at all levels of the system, and highlights areas where preventative interventions should be targeted.