Table 2 Prevalence and effect of characteristics that made the index incident troubling

Situational characteristics

Factors beyond my control.

It showed how people can be cruel or neglectful

Dealing with the relatives was difficult.

End of shift.

The situation was dangerous for me or another paramedic.

I spent time with the patient and I got to know him – her

Any situation characteristic

Systemic characteristics

It was mismanaged at the time.

How the call was relayed - treated.

The supervisor’s reaction.

It was mismanaged after the incident.

How the call was handled by dispatch.

There was an investigation or complaint about it

Reactions of peers.

Inadequate equipment.

Any system characteristic

Personal characteristics

I was surprised by the call.

I felt helpless.

I felt overwhelmed.

I felt I didn’t do a good enough job.

Fatigue.

There were cumulative work stressors in my life at the time.

I felt unappreciated.

There were stresses in my personal life at the time.

Any self characteristic