Self-perceived confidence and competence of paramedics in administrating intravenous morphine for pain management Selbsteinschätzung von Sicherheit und Kompetenz durch Notfallsanitäterinnen und Notfallsanitäter bei der Verabreichung von intravenösem Morphin zur Schmerztherapie
Schuhmann K, Beckers S, Blunck D, Schröder H, Breuer F (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
DOI: 10.1007/s10049-025-01617-1
Abstract
Background: Following the amendment of § 13 Abs. 1b of the German Narcotic Drugs Act in 2023, emergency paramedics have been authorized to administer narcotics. In the district of Rhine-Berg, morphine has been preauthorzied by the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Medical Director since January 1, 2024. This study aims to document the independently conducted interventions by paramedics, particularly in the context of pharmacological pain management and to evaluate their competence and self-perceived confidence in performing these tasks. Methods: This study comprises a prospective evaluation of documentation collected between January 1 and December 31, 2024. The paramedics’ self-assessment regarding their level of competence and confidence in performing the procedures was obtained via a postintervention questionnaire. Results: A total of 1827 interventions for 804 patients were analyzed. Analgesia was administered in 54% of relevant cases (n = 434). Among the analgesics, morphine was used by paramedics in 42% of cases (n = 179). In 55% of these cases (n = 94), paramedics rated their perceived confidence in administration at the highest level (level 5, “I feel very confident”). In all, 70% (n = 120) of respondents self-assessed their competence as being at least at a “proficient” level. Compared to analgosedation with esketamine, a similar level of confidence and competence was reported. Conclusion: Paramedics report a high level of confidence in the administration of morphine. The majority of paramedics rated their competence at a minimum of level III (mastery). However, the relatively limited number of administrations highlights the necessity of a comprehensive quality assurance and management framework to ensure the highest possible standard of skills development and patient safety and to optimize professional competence.
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Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Schuhmann, K., Beckers, S., Blunck, D., Schröder, H., & Breuer, F. (2025). Self-perceived confidence and competence of paramedics in administrating intravenous morphine for pain management Selbsteinschätzung von Sicherheit und Kompetenz durch Notfallsanitäterinnen und Notfallsanitäter bei der Verabreichung von intravenösem Morphin zur Schmerztherapie. Notfall und Rettungsmedizin. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10049-025-01617-1
MLA:
Schuhmann, Kristin, et al. "Self-perceived confidence and competence of paramedics in administrating intravenous morphine for pain management Selbsteinschätzung von Sicherheit und Kompetenz durch Notfallsanitäterinnen und Notfallsanitäter bei der Verabreichung von intravenösem Morphin zur Schmerztherapie." Notfall und Rettungsmedizin (2025).
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