Aeromedical Factors Flashcards
Physiological (Self-Imposed) Stressors
Hypoxia
Is the body’s lack or need of oxygen for any reason. 4 Types: -Hypoxic -Hypemic -Histotoxic -Stagnant
Hypoxic Hypoxia
Reduction in Pressure Oxygen / PO2 encountered at high altitude. Flights above 10,000 feet. The most common type experienced by aviators. Prevention: (PUL) -Pressurized Cabin -Use supplemental oxygen during nights above 4000 feet. -Limit time at altitude Treatment: (100% / 10,000 ft) -Give 100% oxygen -Descend to below 10,000 ft (if possible)
Hypemic Hypoxia
Reduction in the Oxygen - Carrying capacity of the blood Cigarettes, Carbon Monoxide, Blood donations.
Histotoxic Hypoxia
Reduction in the ability to transfer O2 from the Blood to Tissues. Alcohol, Drugs and poisons.
Stagnant Hypoxia
Reduction in the blood’s ability to circulate properly in the body. Extreme G forces (Blood Pooling), tight seat belts, heart problems.
4 Stages of Hypoxia
{0-10,000 feet} Indifferent - 90 to 98% O2 Saturation Decrease in night vision above 4000 feet. {10,000 - 15,000 feet} Compensatory - 80 to 89% O2 Saturation Poor judgement, Impaired Coordination, Drowsiness {15,000 - 20,000 feet} Disturbance - 70 to 90% O2 Saturation Impaired Flight Control, Hand writing and Speech {20,000 and above} Critical - 60 to 69% O2 Saturation Convulsion, Collapse, Death
Oxygen Requirements at High Altitude
Maximum allowable time is one hour between 10,000 and 14,000 feet of which only 30 minutes can be between 12,000 to 14,000 feet. Carbon Monoxide CO will bond with blood cells 200 to 300 times easier than O2. CO will leave blood cells at a a rate of 50% rate each 4 hours. 1-3 cigarettes = 10% blood saturation 5,000 feet physiological altitude. Alcohol 1 ounce of alcohol = 2,000 feet physiological altitude. Night Night Vision will deteriorate at approximately 4,000 feet.
Treatment Of Hypoxia
Prevention Of Hypoxia
