Open AccessProtocol for a constructivist metasynthesis of qualitative research of heroism and paramedic practice
Author(s) -
Nigel Rees,
Julia Williams,
Chloe Hogan,
Lauren Smyth,
Thomas P. Archer
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
british paramedic journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1478-4726
DOI - 10.29045/14784726.2021.9.6.2.34
Subject(s) - harm , narrative , health care , protocol (science) , qualitative research , reciprocity (cultural anthropology) , psychology , action (physics) , systematic review , medicine , public relations , medical education , social psychology , medline , sociology , political science , alternative medicine , law , social science , linguistics , philosophy , physics , pathology , quantum mechanics
Exceptional demands have been placed on paramedics and other healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. An overwhelming outpouring of public support has unfolded, bringing into focus the relationship between paramedics, other HCWs and society, where they are portrayed as heroes. Scholars have studied the notion of heroism to society, and characteristics of such heroic status include: the voluntary nature of a heroic act, risk of physical or social harm, willingness to accept the consequences of action, acting for the benefit of others and without the expectation of gain. While some HCWs and paramedics may reflect these characteristics, many may not. Such heroic narratives can be damaging, stifling meaningful discussion around limits to duties, failing to acknowledge the importance of reciprocity and potentially imposing demands on paramedics and HCWs to be heroic.