Avmed Flashcards
8.5.3 Asthma
What is the
8.5.3.3 Treatment?
Follow General Actions for First Aid
8.5.3.3 Treatment
A sufferer (passenger) usually carries their own medication and knows how best to manage an attack. However:
Advise the passenger to sit down and lean forward, resting on a support such as a tray table
Provide assistance in administering any medications that have been prescribed for the passenger’s asthma attacks and note the time medication was administered
Warning: Do not allow the passenger to exceed the prescribed dose of their medication or repeat the treatment in less than the recommended time.
Administer oxygen on high flow – 4L per min;
Do not leave them alone;
If relief is not felt, seek medical aid immediately.
If passenger becomes unconscious follow DRSABC action plan.
Note: Oxygen does not cure asthma however it may be useful in helping a passenger who is in some distress with breathing.
- 5.20 Shock
- 5.20.3 Treatment?
8.5.20.3 Treatment
Follow General Action for First Aid;
Control any obvious bleeding;
If possible, lie the passenger down, elevate and support the legs, keeping the head level with their heart;
Administer Oxygen high flow rate 4 L per min;
Keep as warm as practical;
Nil by mouth but moisten the lips if the passenger complains of thirst; and
8-66 Aircrew Emergency Procedures Manual 01-Sep-17
If passenger become unconscious follow DRSABC action plan.
Warning: If the passenger has suffered a head, chest or abdominal injury OR a heart attack OR a stroke, DO NOT raise their legs.
8.5.5 Fracture
What is the
8.5.5.5 Treatment ?
Follow General Actions of First Aid;
Do not move unless absolutely necessary;
Make the passenger comfortable, support the injured part;
Await the arrival of medical assistance;
Always control severe bleeding before immobilising any fracture;
In an aircraft it is difficult to treat serious fractures and commence sense treatment must apply. Use a makeshift splint or triangular bandage if possible but do not move the injured part unnecessarily. Always cover open fractures with a sterile dressing and arrange for an ambulance to meet the aircraft; and
If a passenger becomes unconscious follow DRSABC action plan.
- 5.1 Motion (Air) Sickness
- 5.1.2 Recognition
Nausea / vomiting
Sweating
Pallor of skin
Salivation and yawning
WHAT IS
FAST
FAST is a simple way of remembering the signs of a stroke:
Facial weakness – can the person smile? Has their eye or mouth drooped?
Arm weakness – can the person raise both arms?
Speech difficulty – can the person speak clearly and understand
what you say?
Time to act fast – seek medical attention immediately
- 5.15 Fainting
- 5.15.2 Recognition?
8.5.15.2 Recognition
Possible symptoms include:
1 Restlessness and/or giddiness;
2 Cold, moist skin and paleness; and
3 Weak, slow pulse with shallow breathing that may lead to unconsciousness.
8.5.3 Asthma
What is the
8.5.3.2 Recognition?
8.5.3.2 Recognition
Generally the passenger will be conversant with both the symptoms and the treatment. Nevertheless Cabin Crew should be alert to this potentially dangerous condition. Symptoms include:
1 Difficulty in breathing and talking
2 Wheezing and coughing
3 Anxiety
4 Fatigue
5 Possible paleness, blueness of lips, sweating
6 Possible unconsciousness
- 2.1 Hypoxia
- 2.2.3 Treatment
8.2.2.3 Treatment
Conscious passengers should be given oxygen sitting upright
Unconscious passengers should be given oxygen lying in the recovery position
Give oxygen until condition is relieved
Recovery from hypoxia occurs rapidly when adequate oxygen is supplied – a sudden onset of dizziness during recovery is common but should pass quickly
Under normal conditions, the cabin altitude is about 6500 – 8000 feet and healthy passengers have no trouble coping with the reduced air pressure at this cabin altitude. However, hypoxia can occur even in an oxygen rich environment.
The oxygen must reach the tissues in the body where it is needed to be effective, therefore it is possible for passengers to become hypoxic even when the aircraft is functioning quite normally especially if they are suffering from a medical condition.
These conditions may include:
Heart and blood vessel disease
Lung disease
Anaemia and other blood disorders
Intoxication from drugs, including alcohol
- 5.19 Miscarriage
- 5.19.3 Treatment?
Assist the passenger into a position of comfort;
Have passenger place sanitary napkin or similar over vaginal area - do not try to control the bleeding by packing the vagina. This will not control the bleeding and may be harmful;
Administer oxygen high flow 4 L per min;
Monitor the amount of bleeding;
Observe conscious state, pulse and breathing;
Keep warm with a blanket; and
Keep all used sanitary napkins and place in the Hygiene Kit bag for examination by medical professionals. The foetus and other products of conception may be expelled on the padding.
WAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR
Epileptic Fit or Seizure
8.5.13.3 Treatment
Pre Seizure Actions:
Move other passengers away (if possible)
Remove food and drink and stow their tray table. Pad any hard surfaces with pillows
Loosen any restrictive clothing Management:
Allow the fit or seizure to occur unrestrained and try to protect and support the passenger. Do not place anything in mouth.
Post Seizure Actions:
Check the airway for breathing
The passenger may be drowsy, confused and sleepy. This is
normal directly after an epileptic fit
Reassurance is important, as the passenger may be embarrassed and upset
Oxygen may be useful, if tolerated
Assistance may be required for loss of bladder and or bowel
control during the fit
Advise the Captain as soon as possible
If the seizure does not stop, say after 5 minutes or keeps recurring:
o Seek other possible on-board medical assistance (use the PA)
o Request an ambulance to meet the aircraft on arrival
8.5.5 Fracture
What is the
8.5.5.4 Recognition?
8.5.5.4 Recognition
1 The snap of the bone may have been felt or heard;
2 Pain or tenderness at or near the site of injury;
3 Deformity of the injured area;
4 Loss of function, swelling and bruising;
5 Depression of a flat bone e.g. knee cap;
6 Signs and symptoms of shock; and
7 Not all signs and symptoms will be present in all fractures. If you are in any doubt about the severity of the injury manage as a fracture. If you move the person, do so carefully and gently to avoid further injury and increased pain. Severe bleeding needs to be controlled prior to immobilising any fracture.
8.3.3 General Actions of First Aid
What are they
Assist the passenger into a restful, comfortable and suitable position
Loosen tight clothing around their neck, chest and waist and ensure adequate ventilation
Cover them with blanket or clothing to minimise loss of body heat
Wipe their face and hands with a cold or warm moist cloth
Talk and act with quiet confidence
Assist in relieving any passenger anxiety by:
Notifying on-board relatives
Distracting the passenger from the sight of the injury
Preventing the curiosity of onlookers
Administer oxygen where applicable i.e. where there is blueness of lips, or nail beds when the passenger has difficulty in breathing
Handle passenger gently
Warning: Alcohol should not be given as a First Aid Treatment. Warning: Do not give fluids if:
The passenger is unconscious or unable to swallow
There is an abdominal injury or undiagnosed abdominal pain
There is a likelihood of the passenger requiring an operation
Transport of the passenger is at the discretion of Cabin Crew and the Captain. The nature and severity of the illness or injury and the general condition of the passenger must be fully considered.
8.5.2 Allergic Reaction
What is the
Treantment?
8.5.2.3 Treatment
Follow General Actions for First Aid
If conscious, treat passenger in their seat – sitting up
If the passenger is carrying prescribed medication (e.g. Epi-
pen) assist with administration, if required
Administer Oxygen on the High flow rate at 4 L/min
Make a PA for medical assistance and advise the Captain
8.2.2 Time of Useful Consciousness
at
25,000
25,000 feet
2 minutes
3 minutes
Nose bleed
Recgnition and treatment ?
8.5.8.2 Recognition
An obvious moderate flow of blood from the nose
A combined skull fracture shows mixture of blood and clear
fluid flowing from the nose
8.5.8.3 Treatment
Advise the passenger not to blow their nose
Ask the passenger to pinch the soft part of their nose firmly
and continuously for up to ten minutes
Sit the passenger up at rest with their head tilted forward so as to minimise possibility of swallowing blood
Loosen the clothing around their neck so they are comfortable
Advise them to sit quietly and breathe through their mouth
Place cold wet towels on their neck and forehead and keep
them as cool as is practical
Nose bleeds in the elderly may be very serious and due to blood loss may require urgent medical intervention
If after 30 minutes bleeding persists or recurs, medical advice will be needed
8.5.2 Allergic Reaction
What is the
8.5.2.2 Recognition
1 Swelling of the throat and tongue, leading to difficulty in swallowing and breathing;
2 Swelling and redness of the skin;
3 Itching with generalised flushing of the skin;
4 A strange metallic taste in the mouth;
5 Sudden feeling of weakness;
6 Increased heart rate (tachycardia);
7 Abdominal cramps and nausea; or
8 Collapse and unconsciousness.
- 2.3 Hyperventilation
- 2.3.2 Recognition ?
8.2.3.2 Recognition
Flushed appearance
Dizziness, faintness and a feeling of unreality
Tingling sensation or numbness, particularly of hands and feet
Clumsiness, tremors of limbs or muscle spasms
Respiration difficulties, tightness of chest, ‘asthma like’
symptoms (shortness of breath and rapid breathing)
Rapid pulse
Feeling of nausea
Vision may be affected (e.g. blurred vision)
Unconsciousness
Palpitations (feeling of panic)
8.2.2 Time of Useful Consciousness
at
20,000
20,000 feet
5 minutes
12 minutes
8.5.12 Hyperglycaemia
Treatment?
8.5.12.3 Treatment
Reassure
Allow the passenger to self-administer own insulin
Encourage the passenger to drink sugar free liq
- 5.12 Hyperglycaemia
- 5.12.2 Recognition
8.5.12.2 Recognition
1 Fruity odour to breath (smell of acetone)
2 Dry, hot skin
3 Excessive thirst
4 Nausea and vomiting
5 Increased need to urinate
6 Fast pulse
7 Drowsiness, unconsciousness
8.5.21 Stroke
8.5.21.2 Recognition
Confusion
Weakness or paralysis of one or both sides of the body
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Paralysis of the mouth causing saliva to dribble
Possibly, head and eyes turning to one side and pupils may be different sizes
1 Slurred or garbled speech
2 Pounding pulse and severe headache
3 Difficulty in swallowing
4 Flushed face
5 Altered level of consciousness
6 Sudden death
WARNING: If an elderly person suddenly becomes confused, a stroke should be suspected. Seek medical aid immediately.
- 5.17 Heart Attack/Severe Chest Pain
- 5.17.2 Recognition
Sudden crushing vice-like pain in the centre of the chest;
Pain may spread to the arms, especially the left or to the
throat, jaw or back;
Sudden dizziness or giddiness;
Skin may be pale, cold and clammy;
Profuse sweating may occur;
Nausea;
Breathlessness;
Pulse may be rapid, weak or irregular; and
Passenger may collapse followed by cessation of breathing and pulse.
8.5.18 Pain - Abdominal
What is the treatment
8.5.18.3 Treatment
1 Follow DRSABC Action Plan
2 Reassure passenger
3 Assist the passenger to curl into a comfortable position to relax the abdominal muscles
4 Cover with a blanket to keep warm
5 Do not give any food or fluid
6 Observe carefully
If the pain increases or there is no improvement seek medical advice and ask for an ambulance to meet the aircraft.
- 2.1 Hypoxia
- 2.2.2 Recognition?
Mild
1 Fatigue
2 Feeling of warmth
3 Listlessness and vague distress
4 Lack of concentration
5 Reduced performance
6 Dizzy with blurred vision
7 Headache
Moderate
8 Mood swings and confusion
9 Breathlessness
10 Invulnerability
11 Euphoria
12 Blueness in fingertips and lips (cyanosis)
13 Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
Severe
Blue pallor of skin
14 Loss of consciousness
15 Twitching of limbs
16 Convulsions
17 It may even result in death
- 5.20 Shock
- 5.20.2 Recognition?
8.5.20.2 Recognition
1 The passenger may have pain associated with the cause of shock;
2 The passenger may feel weak, dizzy and/or faint, possibly leading to unconsciousness;
3 Pale, cold, clammy skin with nausea and/or vomiting;
4 Pulse may be slow at first, becoming rapid and feeble;
5 Rapid shallow respirations may be yawning slightly; and
6 Thirst.
Note: In case the passenger later requires an operation, do not administer anything by mouth.
WHAT IS STROKE
STROKE TREATMENT 8.5.21.3
8.5.21.3 Treatment
Seek medical aid urgently;
Reassure the passenger, they may be able to understand
even if they are not able to communicate;
Support their head and shoulders on a pillow;
Wipe away secretions from their mouth;
Ensure the airway is clear and open;
Administer Oxygen high flow 4 L per min; and
If passenger becomes unconscious follow DRSABC action plan.
8.2.8 Decompression Sickness
What is the
8.2.8.3 Treatment?
8.2.8.3 Treatment
Recommend the passenger remain in their seat and reduce physical activity as it can lead to nitrogen bubbles moving towards major organs.
7 Advise the Captain immediately (Descent and diversion to nearest port containing a Hyperbaric chamber is advised)
8 Administer Oxygen High flow 4L per min
9 Loosen tight clothing (around chest and neck)
10 Offer drinks of water every 15 minutes until landing
8.5.4 Sprain & Strain
Recognition and treatment .
8.5.4.2 Recognition
Pain and tenderness around the joint, increased by movement
Swelling, followed by bruising
8.5.4.3 Treatment
Follow General Actions of First Aid
Apply the RICE principle:
o Rest–Theinjuredlimb
o Ice – The area. Try to ice the area as soon as possible
after the injury and continue to ice for 15-20 minutes
o Compress – The area with a bandage
o Elevate – The injured limb above the heart area whenever possible to help prevent or limit swelling
Note: If in doubt manage as a fracture.
- 5.15 Fainting
- 5.15.3 Treatment ?
8.5.15.3 Treatment
Check for the possible cause of fainting condition and alter the circumstances if possible;
Lie the passenger down with their legs raised, keeping the head level with the heart. Leave the passenger lying down for approximately 5 to 10 minutes;
Cool the passenger by loosening tight or restrictive clothing and encourage deep breathing;
Administer oxygen on high flow;
01-Sep-17 Aircrew Emergency Procedures Manual 8-61
If the passenger is unconscious follow the DRSABC action plan; and
Do not administer anything by mouth until the passenger is fully conscious but then, on recovery, give fluids (but no alcohol).
Caution: Do not leave a person who has fainted in their seat or with their head between their knees.
- 2.3 Hyperventilation
- 2.3.3 Treatment ?
8.2.3.3 Treatment
Reassure the passenger to relieve anxiety
Encourage the passenger to breathe quietly and slowly to
reduce carbon dioxide loss
Offer oxygen on high flow (4L per min)
Seek medical advice
If passenger becomes unconscious follow DRSABC Action Plan
Crew should not use any rebreathing technique
Hyperventilation Vs other Medical Conditions
Symptoms of hyperventilation may be confused with other medical conditions that are potentially fatal such as hypoxia and/or heart attack. Cabin Crew should be aware of this and always administer oxygen if there is any uncertainty – to a passenger hyperventilating, oxygen will not be fatal, but a failure to administer oxygen to a passenger suffering from hypoxia or a heart attack may well be.
8.2.8 Decompression Sickness.
What are the sighs and Symptoms
1 Dull ache, that increases to a deep constant pain around the large joints, particularly the knee, shoulders or elbows
2 Skin tingling (also known as the crawls) - a burning rash like sensation
3 Headache
4 Body weakness, numbness
5 Chest tightness causing shortness of breath
6 Dizziness and feeling faint
7 Collapse
- 5.19 Miscarriage
- 5.19.2 Recognition ?
1 Vaginal bleeding that maybe severe;
2 Cramp like pains in lower abdominal area and back;
3 Signs and symptoms of shock; and
4 Expulsion of the foetus and other tissue.
- 5.17 Heart Attack/Severe Chest Pain
- 5.17.3 Treatment
Seek medical aid urgently;
Reassure gently support and assist into the position of
greatest comfort;
Loosen any constricting clothing around neck, chest and waist;
Administer oxygen high flow 4L per min; and
If the passenger becomes unconscious follow DRSABC Action Plan.
8.5.13 Epileptic Fit or Seizure
what is the
8.5.13.2 Recognition
The symptoms will vary according to the cause of seizure and the passenger’s condition.
Symptoms may include:
1 Loss of normal bodily mobility and function
2 Twitching of the muscles in the face and limbs
3 Squinting or upturning of the eyes
4 Stiffness or rigidity of the body
5 Possible loss of consciousness
- 5.1 Motion (Air) Sickness
- 5.1.3 Treatment
Ensure sick bags are readily available;
Offer a cold towel and a glass of water or ice
Direct an air vent onto their face;
Distract the passenger, an outside view will assist them to
overcome the unfamiliar motion of the aircraft;
Reassure them that symptoms will subside once on the ground; and
If all else fails utilise the Hygiene Kit as required
