Factors affecting communication skills of ambulance workers: Examining the relationship between empathy and stress coping skills

Purpose: This master's thesis aimed to investigate the relationship between the communication skills of ambulance workers and their empathy and coping skills. The study sought to contribute to the existing literature by exploring the interplay between these skills in the unique context of ambulance work. Materials and Methods: A quantitative research design was used in this study and data were collected from the population of ambulance workers in Adana Province using a standard questionnaire.The questionnaire assessed participants' communication skills, empathy levels, and coping skills. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression analyses, were conducted to examine the relationships between these variables. Results: The results revealed a statistically significant and positive relationship between the communication skills, empathy, and coping skills of ambulance workers. As the overall scores of these skills increased, there was a corresponding increase in the overall scores within each domain. Specific sub-dimensions were identified to have significant relationships, such as the positive correlation between active planning and acceptance-cognitive restructuring. Conclusion: This study provides evidence for the interconnectedness of communication skills, empathy, and coping skills among ambulance workers. The findings emphasize the importance of these skills in the demanding and high-stress environment of ambulance work. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions and training programs to enhance these skills and promote the well-being of ambulance workers. Keywords: Communication skills, empathy, coping skills, ambulance workers, healthcare communication, stress management.