Ambulance traffic accidents and their impact on prehospital personnel: a mixed-methods study

OBJECTIVE: Prehospital personnel operate in environments with a significant risk of on-duty traffic accidents. We investigated the prevalence and characteristics of on-duty ambulance traffic accidents and explored how prehospital personnel perceive and experience accidents involving occupational injury.

METHODS: This mixed-methods study combined a quantitative analysis of accidents including prehospital vehicles in the Region of Southern Denmark from 2017 through 2022 with qualitative interviews and a focus group. All vehicles damaged in accidents were identified. Through occupational injury reports, we identified personnel reporting injuries following an on-duty traffic accident. To capture the experiences of prehospital personnel, we conducted two individual interviews and a focus group. Accident data were analysed by type and location. Qualitative data were analysed using Malterud's Systematic Text Condensation.

RESULTS: Within the study period, 562,612 emergency missions were carried out in the Region of Southern Denmark. We identified 120 moderate or severe on-duty accidents (0.02%). Most accidents occurred at intersections, on highways, or involved animals. The qualitative analysis resulted in three categories: 1. Recognising the risk while fearing consequences during emergency driving, 2. Acting within a masculinised work culture, 3. Struggling to recognise the need for personal support.

CONCLUSION: Although the risk of on-duty ambulance accidents is low, their psychological consequences are notable. Prehospital personnel request structured post-incident protocols and organisational support to change work culture and enhance safety and well-being. Organisational interventions that address both the operational and emotional dimensions of ambulance accidents are required.