Cabin Crew Medical Emergency Procedures

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Questions and Answers

What does the first 'S' in the S-A-M-P-L-E acronym stand for?

Signs and Symptoms (correct)

Scan and Assess

Specific Conditions

Severity

During Basic Life Support, what is the first step to ensure safety?

Ensure the scene is safe (correct)

Perform CPR

Check for breathing

Open the airway

What should be done during the 'R' step in Basic Life Support?

Assess responsiveness (correct)

Check circulation

Open the airway

Initiate CPR

What do you need to check before performing defibrillation with an AED?

Attach electrodes and analyze ECG rhythm Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by symptoms of fast breathing and dizziness?

Hyperventilation Signup and view all the answers

What information is captured under 'P' in the S-A-M-P-L-E assessment?

Past Medical History Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step when using an AED aside from following voice prompts?

Ensure no one is touching the casualty Signup and view all the answers

How should one manage a casualty's medication during an incident?

Gather and secure any medications for emergency use Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the cabin crew during a medical emergency?

Ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and crew Signup and view all the answers

When should cabin crew seek ground-based medical support?

When the passenger's condition is serious or deteriorating Signup and view all the answers

Which acronym is used by cabin crew to assess a passenger experiencing a medical issue?

SAMPLE Signup and view all the answers

What should cabin crew do with waste generated from a medical event?

Seal it in biohazard bags and follow protocols Signup and view all the answers

What is a common minor ailment encountered in-flight?

Fainting Signup and view all the answers

What is advised for cabin crew to prioritize during medical emergencies?

Safety for themselves and others Signup and view all the answers

How should cabin crew document medical incidents?

Thoroughly and accurately Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step cabin crew should take when managing a medical emergency?

Assess the situation and provide first aid Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in managing a person experiencing anxiety or panic due to a stressor?

Calm the person and remove them from the stressor if possible Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom indicates a person is suffering from heatstroke?

Body temperature greater than 40°C Signup and view all the answers

What should cabin crew do for a passenger with sunburn?

Advise to avoid further sun exposure Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct action if someone is having a seizure?

Move objects away to prevent injury Signup and view all the answers

What should be done first when dealing with a suspected stroke victim?

Use the BE FAST acronym Signup and view all the answers

How should cabin crew respond to a person choking?

Perform back blows followed by abdominal thrusts Signup and view all the answers

In a diabetic emergency when you're unsure about hypoglycemia, what should you do?

Offer glucose tablets or sugary drinks Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal when handling infectious communicable diseases among passengers?

Ensure isolation and avoid physical contact Signup and view all the answers

What is hypoxia primarily caused by during a flight?

Lack of sufficient oxygen supply to the body's tissues. Signup and view all the answers

Which situation could potentially lead to hypoxia in-flight?

There is a cabin depressurization event. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the DRABC protocol when encountering an unconscious passenger?

Check for responsiveness by shaking and speaking. Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is NOT typically associated with a heart attack?

Persistent coughing. Signup and view all the answers

How should cabin crew assist a passenger suspected of having a heart attack?

Help them into a comfortable position, usually semi-sitting. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a sign of hypothermia?

Shivering and cold skin. Signup and view all the answers

Which step should be taken if a passenger is experiencing a heart attack?

Administer oxygen as soon as possible. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked to verify breathing in an unconscious passenger?

Look for chest movement and listen for breath sounds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step for cabin crew to take when managing dental emergencies?

Rinse the mouth with warm water Signup and view all the answers

In case of decompression sickness, what is the immediate action cabin crew should take?

Administer oxygen Signup and view all the answers

When should the AED’s ECG display be used?

After delivering shocks or if pulse is uncertain Signup and view all the answers

What signs might indicate a passenger is experiencing ear barotrauma?

Ear pain and difficulty hearing Signup and view all the answers

Which step is NOT recommended for managing a dental emergency with a broken tooth?

Encourage the passenger to eat something Signup and view all the answers

What should cabin crew do for a passenger with symptoms of decompression sickness?

Inform the commander and seek assistance Signup and view all the answers

Which action should cabin crew take to help a passenger equalize ear pressure?

Encourage yawning or swallowing Signup and view all the answers

How should the AED be configured for repeated shocks?

Verify the mode based on electrode type Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step for cabin crew to assist a passenger experiencing anxiety or a panic attack?

Engage the passenger with simple, direct questions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should cabin crew do for a burn injury?

Cool the burn under running water for at least 10 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

In case of an eye injury, what is the recommended first aid step?

Rinse the eye with clean, lukewarm water. Signup and view all the answers

What should cabin crew do if a passenger exhibits signs of severe burns?

Monitor for shock and prepare for diversion if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the essential components of post-emergency procedures for cabin crew?

Debrief with colleagues and supervisors. Signup and view all the answers

During altitude-related conditions, what health issues might passengers experience?

Symptoms related to changes in cabin pressure and oxygen levels. Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate action for cabin crew when dealing with a medical incident during flight?

Documenting all details of the incident. Signup and view all the answers

When providing emotional support after a medical incident, what is a key step for cabin crew?

Seek access to professional counseling if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cabin Crew Roles in Medical Emergencies

Ensure personal and colleague safety by assessing the environment for hazards and prioritizing self-protection. This involves being vigilant and aware of any potential dangers such as spills, loose items, or other issues that could lead to accidents during a medical response. Cabin crew should maintain a proactive approach to identify risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their own safety and that of their colleagues before providing assistance to an injured or ill passenger.

Provide basic casualty assessment and care, using the S-A-M-P-L-E method (Signs and Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past Medical History, Last Food/Drink, and Extras). This systematic approach helps cabin crew to gather vital information about the passenger’s health status quickly and accurately, which is crucial in determining the best course of action during an emergency situation. It encourages thorough communication with the affected individual or bystanders and allows for better decision-making by prioritizing essential details that can significantly impact treatment.

Act within training limitations and document incidents. It's essential for cabin crew members to understand the scope of their training, recognizing when to provide assistance and when to defer to medical professionals. Accurate documentation of the incident is vital not only for legal reasons but also for continuous improvement in response protocols and future training. This documentation must include time of the incident, actions taken, and specifics about the patient's condition.

Complete and file a Medical Report after the event. This report serves as a formal record of all emergency responses and can be vital for follow-up care for the passenger involved. It should be comprehensive, detailing responses taken, the condition of the passenger before and after intervention, and any additional information that may be pertinent for medical professionals once the patient is under their care.

Medical Help Available

Verify credentials of the volunteer medical professional. In cases where medical assistance is provided by volunteer professionals, such as doctors or nurses who are also passengers, it's vital that cabin crew confirm their qualifications and ensure they are capable of providing the necessary medical care. This verification process adds another layer of safety and reassurance for both the crew and the patients involved.

Collaborate with medical staff while maintaining crew responsibility. The cabin crew should work alongside any qualified medical personnel available onboard to ensure a coordinated response. However, while collaboration is important, the cabin crew must remain aware of their overriding responsibilities and authority in the situation, facilitating a cohesive interaction that recognizes every individual's role during the emergency.

Provide necessary medical equipment. Ensuring that appropriate medical supplies such as first aid kits, oxygen masks, and any other relevant equipment are readily available and accessible is a fundamental responsibility of cabin crew. They should be familiar with the location and contents of these supplies to ensure that they can retrieve them quickly during a medical emergency, thereby saving valuable time in patient care.

Ensure clear communication. Effective communication is imperative during medical emergencies. Cabin crew must communicate not only with the passenger in distress but also with each other and any medical personnel who may arrive. They should provide concise and clear updates to ensure that all parties understand the situation and any actions being taken, thus fostering an environment of safety and efficacy.

Complete a Medical Report, signed by the doctor if present. Having a Medical Report signed by a qualified medical professional attests to the accuracy of the information documented and provides legitimacy to the actions taken during the medical emergency. This signed report can be invaluable for follow-up care and for any legal considerations that may arise from the incident.

Medical Decision Making

Monitor the passenger for further issues. It is crucial for cabin crew to keep a close watch on the condition of the passenger over time to identify any changes, whether improvements or deteriorations. Vigilance in monitoring vital signs such as consciousness, breathing, and responsiveness can provide essential information for medical professionals when they arrive.

Arrange medical assistance. If the situation warrants, cabin crew should initiate the protocol for arranging medical assistance. This may include contacting the ground medical support team or requesting emergency services if the aircraft is near an airport, and signaling for assistance from fellow crew members or volunteer medical professionals onboard.

Contact ground medical support. Cabin crew should have established protocols for contacting medical personnel on the ground when situations escalate. This communication allows for the provision of vital information about the passenger's condition and determines the best course of action for the next steps, including the possibility of diversion or emergency landing if necessary.

Decide on diversion if needed by providing detailed information to the commander. Cabin crew must assess the severity of the medical emergency and whether it necessitates changing the flight itinerary. By relaying clear and complete information to the flight commander, the crew can help facilitate a decision that prioritizes passenger health and safety, which may involve landing at the nearest suitable airport for urgent care.

Common Diversions

Unconsciousness: If the passenger doesn't regain consciousness despite first aid interventions, it becomes critical to evaluate the situation as it may indicate a serious underlying medical issue requiring immediate attention.

Severe breathing difficulties may include respiratory distress or inability to breathe effectively, which can quickly lead to life-threatening situations if not addressed. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels can provide additional insights into the passenger’s condition.

Severe pain can be indicative of major health issues, such as heart attacks or other acute conditions, necessitating swift medical evaluation and intervention.

Uncontrolled bleeding signifies a critical situation that poses risks of shock or death, and immediate medical response is necessary to stabilize the passenger.

Major injuries or shock are emergencies that require decisive action and swift medical intervention to prevent further complications, including life-threatening situations.

Additional Medical Topics

Hyperventilation: Calm the person experiencing hyperventilation by encouraging them to take slow, deep breaths, possibly focusing on breathing through the nose and out through the mouth. In some cases, using a paper bag for rebreathing carbon dioxide may help, but this should be approached cautiously. It is also essential to reassure the individual and avoid further panic.

Heatstroke: If a passenger displays symptoms of heatstroke, it is important to move them immediately to a cooler environment to help lower their body temperature. Remove excess clothing, apply cold compresses to the neck, armpits, and groin, and if the person is conscious, offer them water to drink. Vigilant monitoring is necessary to determine the effectiveness of care provided.

Sunburns: For passengers who suffer from sunburn, applying cool compresses can alleviate discomfort. Crew members should advise on future sun protection measures, ensure the passenger is well-hydrated, and consult with a medical professional if the sunburn is extensive or accompanied by severe symptoms.

Diabetic Emergencies: In the case of a diabetic emergency, offering glucose tablets or sugary drinks can be an effective way to manage symptoms of hypoglycemia. However, it is essential to monitor the passenger for improvement before deciding whether further medical advice is needed, as worsening symptoms may indicate other issues.

Seizures: If a passenger experiences a seizure, it is critical to protect their head to prevent injury and clear the area of obstacles. Crew members should not restrain the person during the seizure, but instead closely monitor them until the seizure subsides, and be prepared to provide support afterward.

Spinal Injuries: If spinal injury is suspected, it is essential to keep the head and neck immobilized and supported until medical assistance can be provided, unless remaining in that position poses an immediate danger to the passenger.

Choking: In cases of choking, cabin crew should follow the recommended protocols, including administering back blows and abdominal thrusts as necessary. The process should cease once the obstruction is cleared, and the passenger has regained normal breathing.

Stroke: Identify signs of a stroke using the BE FAST acronym: Balance (difficulty balancing), Eyes (vision changes), Face (facial drooping), Arms (inability to raise both arms), Speech (slurred or unclear speech), and Time (call for help immediately). Quick assessment and notification of medical assistance are crucial in these situations.

Infectious Communicable Diseases: When dealing with infectious diseases, cabin crew should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and other necessary gear. It's important to isolate the affected passenger from others as much as possible to prevent potential spread and to ensure proper disposal of waste materials to maintain hygiene.

Hypothermia: In instances of hypothermia, it is vital to move the passenger to a warmer area, remove any wet clothing, offer warm, non-alcoholic beverages, and monitor their condition closely. Refrain from applying direct heat, which can cause further complications.

Allergic Reactions: For severe allergic reactions, promptly administer an epinephrine auto-injector if one is available. In addition, providing supplemental oxygen can assist with breathing difficulties. It’s also essential to keep the passenger calm and continuously monitor their symptoms as emergency services are contacted.

Poisoning: If poisoning is suspected, it is crucial to identify the substance if possible. Inducing vomiting should only be done if explicitly instructed by medical professionals. Providing supplemental oxygen may be necessary if there is any indication of impaired breathing. Rapid communication with medical personnel is essential for proper management.

Childbirth: In delivering a baby onboard, it’s vital to provide privacy for the passenger. Assemble an emergency kit that includes clean towels and cord clamps. The passenger should be supported in a comfortable position, preferably lying down with knees bent to facilitate delivery, and once the baby is born, keep them warm and encourage skin-to-skin contact where possible.

Dental Emergencies: For dental issues, rinse the mouth with warm, saline water if possible and apply a cold compress to alleviate swelling. Prevent any potential further injury while seeking appropriate dental care after the flight.

Advanced AED Usage: In the event of cardiac arrest, attach the AED electrodes to the appropriate areas of the chest and follow the device’s analysis. The AED will provide audio prompts for urgent actions such as administering shocks or continuing CPR, may need adjustments based on the feedback received from the device.

Decompression Sickness: This condition may occur due to sudden changes in pressure experienced by divers. In such situations, administering oxygen is essential, and the passenger should be kept seated or lying down to prevent exacerbation of symptoms. Promptly informing the commander regarding the situation can expedite necessary action and medical assistance.

Ear Barotrauma: For passengers suffering from ear barotrauma, encourage activities that can help equalize ear pressure, such as swallowing or yawning. Providing chewing gum can facilitate this process. A warm compress may also offer relief, but if symptoms persist, medical advice should be sought as soon as possible.

Post-Emergency Procedures: After handling a medical emergency, thoroughly document all incidents, ensuring all relevant details about the situation, actions taken, and patient outcomes are included. Timely filing of the Medical Report is necessary for record-keeping and post-incident reviews. Consider facilitating debriefing sessions for crew members involved to reflect on the incident and evaluate response effectiveness. Additionally, peer support mechanisms should be implemented if staff members express the need for emotional or psychological support following the emergency.

Mental Health Emergencies: When faced with mental health crises among passengers, it’s important to approach the situation with calmness. Direct questions should be posed in a reassuring manner to gain understanding, while also considering contacting ground medical support if there is any indication of risk to the passenger or others. Recognizing the signs of distress and responding appropriately can help manage the situation effectively until professional help is available.

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Description

This quiz covers the essential roles and responsibilities of cabin crew during medical emergencies. It includes procedures for assessing casualties, collaborating with medical professionals, and making critical medical decisions. Test your knowledge on the S-A-M-P-L-E method and proper documentation protocols.