Paramedics in Australia: contemporary challenges of practice.

This book aims to explore the contemporary challenges of practice that Australian paramedics face on a day-to-day basis. These challenges are confronted within an environmental context of sometimes volatile social and political landscapes, changing technological and clinical practice options, and with ambulance authorities dealing with ever rising expectations from the community, the health system and government. It is a resource for university students studying in paramedic programs, experienced paramedics, volunteers and first responders, ambulance service managers, academics and researchers, and other health care professionals associated with the paramedic discipline. It is designed to appeal to those who recognise the crucial role of paramedics and the organisations they work in play in the Australian health system. With over 9000 full-time paramedics in Australia, and estimated 6000 volunteers and first responders, and a growing number of university students undertaking paramedic degree programs throughout the country, our hope is that this book will provide a valuable resource for the next generation of paramedics and those who support them.