Traumatic Events and Its Effect among Emergency Medical Service Provider

Bella  P. Magnaye,; Mario  R. Marasigan,

Traumatic Events and Its Effect among Emergency Medical Service Provider

Discipline: healthcare science (non-specific)

Abstract:

Disasters, both natural and man-made, often leave a trail of destruction not only on the physical landscape but also on the mental and emotional well-being of those involved. The focus of media and public attention typically centers on the immediate aftermath and the victims, overshadowing the silent struggle of rescuers and first responders who face the daunting task of navigating through traumatic scenes to save lives. This paper examines the psychological impact of disaster-related stress on rescuers, including emergency medical service providers, police officers, firefighters, ambulance personnel, and emergency nurses, and the critical role of psychological debriefing in their mental health management. Drawing from various studies, it highlights the association between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and dysfunctional coping strategies, while also underscoring the protective benefits of high levels of selfefficacy. Moreover, it delves into the specific challenges faced by volunteer rescuers in the Philippines, emphasizing the shortage of professional medical and psychological support amidst an overwhelming need. Through an exploration of debriefing as a structured intervention aimed at facilitating the emotional processing and recovery of rescuers, this paper advocates for the normalization and prioritization of psychological debriefing in disaster response protocols. By doing so, it seeks to underscore the necessity of supporting those who serve on the front lines, ensuring their mental welfare and readiness for future deployments, thereby safeguarding a critical component of effective disaster response and management.

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