In this conversation, we talked with Carl Betts about his reflections on critical analysis in paramedic practice. Carl is a Paramedic and quality improvement lead-based in Sheffield working for the ambulance service. He has been a Paramedic for 10 years and has a 10-year extensive history of expeditions featuring multiple trips to Everest base camp, K2, Mongolia, South Africa, Swaziland, Kangchenjunga, Toubkal, Aconcagua, Pakistan, Oman and many more. He has recently written a piece of reflection that is about to be published in the College of Paramedics Hindsight magazine. The piece is titled ‘Where critical analysis becomes critically unhealthy’. In this episode, we examine this article, Carl’s motivations for writing it, and pull out some of the salient learning points. We examine some of the salient learning points around; unpacking the concept of disequilibrium in critical analysis that turns into critical self-appraisal. Also, examining the aspects of challenging debrief that leads to balanced learning and does not omit due affirmation. We also explore examples of where this has gone wrong in the past to put it into clinical context. Furthermore, we look at: 1. Why critical analysis is an important skill both empirically and anecdotally. 2. Bring into focus how to reframe challenging incidents to provide a net positive effect for the clinician. 3. Understand how damaging it can be when it is critical self-appraisal/appraisal by others. 4. Reframing techniques in debrief and reflection 5. Understanding the wider investment in this concept from senior management, frontline clinicians and educational institutions. We hope you enjoy this episode with an engaging and insightful guest.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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