P128 Don’t drop the F-bomb: Paramedic perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours surrounding fatigue

Abstract Introduction Fatigue is prevalent among paramedics internationally, with negative effects on occupational performance and safety, individual well-being, and organisational service delivery. Thus, effective fatigue management is critical. This study aimed to understand paramedic perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours surrounding fatigue. Methods A qualitative methodology involving a semi-structured interview and scenario invention task was utilised to understand paramedic (n = 30) experiences of fatigue and explore related perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours. Data were inductively analysed utilising reflexive thematic analysis with a constructivist grounded theory approach. Results Eight organising themes were constructed under three global themes: (1) ‘Fatigue is a complex experience’, reflecting perceived complexity and multidimensionality of fatigue as a construct and experience; (2) ‘We have to look after ourselves’, reflecting attitudes about paramedic identities and relationships with organisations, and how these influence attitudes toward fatigue and fatigue management; and (3) ‘Working in the trenches’, reflecting how attitudes impact paramedics acting on fatigue, and coping strategies employed when working fatigued. Together, findings highlighted complex relationships between paramedics and their identities, job roles, and organisations, which influence effective and safe fatigue management. Discussion Paramedic perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours surrounding fatigue pose barriers to effective individual and organisational fatigue management. Understanding how paramedics perceive and interact with fatigue is a key factor in designing, implementing, and evaluating fatigue risk management strategies, including fatigue and relevant sleep health education and interventions. Addressing organisational culture, fatigue education, and fatigue risk management design could be considered for improving positive worker engagement with individual and organisational management strategies.