Clinical Practice Radio - Episode 2 - Human Factors

In this episode, the team unpack the vital topic of human factors—the skills and attributes beyond the technical that shape effective clinical performance. They explore how elements like situational awareness, communication, stress management, and decision-making influence paramedic practice in unpredictable environments. The conversation dives into the cognitive load faced on scene, how preparation and routine can enhance performance, and the importance of stress inoculation and reflective practice.

Listeners will gain insight into how experienced clinicians filter variables more efficiently, why adaptability is key, and how good habits—like staying hydrated, being physically prepared, and knowing your kit—can reduce mental strain. The team also highlights how human factors can be developed through deliberate practice and how leadership style must flex to support team members' different learning and feedback needs. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned paramedic, this episode offers practical strategies and relatable reflections to sharpen your non-technical skills and support better patient care.

References

• Think Again, the power of knowing what you don’t know. Adam Grant.

• The Paramedic Mindset. Leigh Anderson (2024).

• The Captain Class, A new theory of Leadership. Sam Walker.

• Crameri, L., Hettiarachchi, I., & Hanoun, S. (2021). A Review of Individual Operational Cognitive Readiness: Theory Development and Future Directions. Human Factors, 63(1), 66-87. https://doi.org/10.1177/0018720819868409

• The Monarch Human Performance Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/monarch-human-performance-podcast/id1520556844?i=1000531171251

• https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/monarch-human-performance-podcast/id1520556844?i=1000537193186

• HeliNOTs program for developing Non-Technical or Human Factors in Search and Rescue Pilots (Hamlet et al, 2021).

• Hugelius, K., & Harada, N. (2025). What is Disaster Readiness Among Health Care Professionals? A Systematic Integrative Review Study. Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness, 19, e57

• Reid, C., Brindley, P., Hicks, C., Carley, S., Richmond, C., Lauria, M., & Weingart, S. (2018). Zero point survey: a multidisciplinary idea to STEP UP resuscitation effectiveness. Clinical and experimental emergency medicine, 5(3), 139–143. https://doi.org/10.15441/ceem.17.269