Consider the context when communicating about caring in health professions

Authors and presenter*

• Leigh Parker, School of Paramedicine, CoHM*

• Sarah Prior, Tasmanian School of Medicine, CoHM

• Pieter Jan Van Dam, School of Nursing, CoHM

• Dale G Edwards, School of Paramedicine, CoHM

Abstract

Altruism, the act of doing for others (without self-gain but with cost to self), is associated with compassion and caring. Altruistic, compassionate care can result in improved wellbeing and health for the patient and practitioner (Parker et al., 2022). It is important to consider the human interaction associated with altruism, compassion and caring in health education; and how paramedics are educated in the craft of altruism, compassion and caring.  

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of altruistic, compassionate, and caring related words within undergraduate paramedicine educational materials. A content analysis of online written materials was conducted using words associated with altruism, compassion and caring as identified by a preparatory scoping review. A number of Bachelor of Paramedicine (53X) units written and coordinated by paramedic academics and related to clinical practice (i.e., where patient engagement was explored) were included in the study.  

Words associated with altruism, compassion and caring, had the highest frequency of use in foundational Unit CAA100 (n = 569). Across 53X the most frequently used word was care (n = 947), which was used across seven different categories. One of the lower frequency words (n = 8) was calm, used across 3 categories. Many words used had variations in meaning and usage and were open to interpretation. Some words had a low frequency of use, others had a higher frequency but a broader range of use. Word-meaning and context matters. 

The key context of educational materials in healthcare can be understood, or misunderstood, by the learner depending on word selection and usage, and the learners understanding of the word itself. Paramedicine education content demonstrates that educators should clarify the meaning and context of words within educational materials, ensuring clarity in the teaching of altruistic, compassionate, and caring behaviours. Provision of a course glossary should be considered.

Unit coordinators could use content analysis to check that word-use aligns with Intended Learning Outcomes, while Course Coordinators can utilise content analysis to ascertain appropriate content scaffolding across curricula. Content analysis is also an appropriate method to map core course content for purposes such as accreditation.

Reference

Parker, L., Prior, S. J., Van Dam, P. J., & Edwards, D. G. (2022). Altruism in paramedicine: A Scoping review. Healthcare 10(9), 1731. https://doi.org.10.3390/healthcare10091731