Citation

Lunde A, Braut GS. Air Med. J. 2019; 38(5): 343-349.

Affiliation

The University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway; Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.amj.2019.05.008

PMID

31578972

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Studies on Norwegian avalanche rescue operations have indicated high-stake searching of avalanches during elevated risk conditions. We perceive these characteristics as a sign of overcommitment. The purpose of this study is to explore the concept of overcommitment in Norwegian medical evacuation and rescue operations. How can overcommitment be described and understood as a uniform concept in rescue operations based on empirical data? METHODS: In a qualitative, exploratory study, 9 focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 30 crewmembers from the Norwegian air ambulance service.

RESULTS: In this first in a series of 2 articles, crewmembers' reflections on the concept of overcommitment, important factors to consider when balancing risk and benefit in every mission, and a number of causal factors are presented. A definition of overcommitment in the context of rescue activities is presented.

CONCLUSION: Air ambulance personnel recognize overcommitment in a variety of situations. They broaden the concept to include both regular, everyday actions and hazardous rescue attempts in extraordinary incidents. The causal factors form recognizable constellations that may offer useful starting points for systems-based counteracting measures. The definition of overcommitment could provide a background for evaluation and learning in the rescue service.

Copyright © 2019 Air Medical Journal Associates. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en