Introduction and objectives

In Portugal, one of the organizations operating in the pre-hospital emergency context is the Portuguese Red Cross. Working at this level is considered a risky activity, including exposure to high levels of stress, which may lead to the development of health problems. The main objectives of this study were describe the profile of these first responders considering health, work, coping and social support variables, explore age/gender differences, as well as the relationship between these variables.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted and the following instruments were used: General Health Questionnaire- 28, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist 5, Warr's Job-Related Affective Well-Being Scale, Brief COPE, and the Survey of Perceived Organizational Support.

Results and Conclusions

The results showed satisfactory levels of general health and psychological well-being, good levels of job satisfaction, and moderate levels of perceived social support. The coping strategies most used by these first responders were emotion-focused coping. The differences found and the relationships between the variables identified constitute important clues to be taken into account in the planning and implementation of actions and interventions with these populations. Optimizing the first responders' working conditions, providing support and promoting the development of skills will make a crucial contribution to their health and psychological well-being, which will be reflected in the quality of the support provided to the population.

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