Introduction:
The risk of exposure to infectious disease for paramedics is high, particularly given the unique environments in which paramedics are required to work. Despite the high-risk environment in which paramedics work, this study found generally poor knowledge of aetiology and transmission of infectious disease and principles of infection among paramedics. The results suggest poor overall knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and transmission by paramedics in this Australian setting and warrant review of infection control practices and education programs in the pre-hospital paramedic setting. Ambulance services and authorities need to address specific and ever-increasing challenges in infection control, by establishing evidence-based practices that value-add to patient care. The study demonstrates a need for further investigation into ambulance infection control knowledge and practices nationally. Importantly, infection control management programs ultimately protect staff and clients from infectious diseases and improve the clinical care and patient care outcomes of the sick and injured.