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Death in the Spanish fire services: a curriculum development study
Santos, J.P.L. García-Llana, H. Pablo, V. Liébana, M. Kellehear, Allan
Santos, J.P.L.
García-Llana, H.
Pablo, V.
Liébana, M.
Kellehear, Allan
Publication Date
2017
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Peer-Reviewed
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closedAccess
Accepted for publication
2017-11-17
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Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand the need and resources firefighters have to deal with
death and dying (D&D) that they encounter whilst on duty and to present a curriculum to support D&D
issues for firefighters.
Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative methodology involving focus groups was conducted
in two fire stations in Spain. The sample was 38 male participants with a mean age of 46 y/o
(range: 30-59 years) and an average tenure of employment of 18 years (range: 6-35 years). Data were subjected
to a thematic analysis. Dual coding of the transcripts in addition to member checking enhanced analysis.
Findings – Nine themes emerged: witnessing D&D during rescue operations;memories about D&D and trauma;
impact on firefighter’s families; decision-making process under stress; teamwork: protective and
self-support; inadequate D&D preparation and training; adequate technical and physical training preparation;
relationship between equipment, legal-moral obligation, and victims’ outcomes; communication issues: toward the
victim and/or their relatives. These themes were subsequently framed into three basic domains: personal impact
of D&D, team impact of D&D, and victim impact. Each domain, in its turn, is covered by three curriculum topics.
The curriculum’s pedagogy is primarily based on experimental-reflective activities during 16 study-hours.
Research limitations/implications – The absence of female participants. All fire stations were in cities
with no more than 150,000 inhabitants.
Practical implications – Individuals who take this curriculum will: increase their ability for self-care and
resilience; improve teamwork, leadership skills, and to decrease burnout; provide more effective care for
victims; provide skills to cope with compassion fatigue; reduced the levels of post-traumatic stress disorders.
Originality/value – Understanding firefighters’ needs with relation to D&D, and assessing the resources
available to mitigate these issues will provide a comprehensive approach to their education and promote health
both personally and professionally. A comparable curriculum or proposal has not been previously identified.
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Citation
Santos JPL, García-Llana H, Pablo V, Liébana M et al (2018) Death in the Spanish fire services: a curriculum development study. International Journal of Emergency Services. 7(1): 71-82.
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Article