The Role Of The Paramedic In Identifying Cases Of Abuse Or Neglect In The Elderly And Children, And Developing Protocols For Reporting Them

Abstract

Children and elderly abuse are major public health issues, and paramedics are ideally placed to recognize suspected cases when they deal with vulnerable populations. In this study, the important role of paramedics in recognizing evidence of neglect and abuse, the use of standardized reporting procedures, and the obstacles hindering successful identification and intervention are discussed. Through critical review of existing literature and review of existing protocols, this study identifies education needs, reporting needs, and standardization needs among authorities. The inference is that despite the paramedics' special observation service, there is a colossal need for education, protocol development, and coordination among agencies to enable recognition and reporting of abuse cases.