SC H. Human Factors Flashcards
What is Hypoxia?
Oxygen deficiency in the body, sufficient to impair functions of the brain and other systems
What are the different types of hypoxia?
Hypoxic - Insufficient O2 available to body as a whole. (blocked airway, drowning)
Hypemic - Blood not able to take up and transport O2 to cells in the body. (CO poisoning)
Stagnant - Not flowing. O2 rich blood in lungs is not moving. (limb “falls asleep”, excessive Gs, cold temp.)
Histotoxic - Inability of cells to effectively use O2. O2 is being transported to cells, but aren’t using it. (alcohol, drugs)
Symptoms of Hypoxia?
- Blue lips, fingertips
- Headache
- Decrease in reaction time
- Impaired judgment
- Euphoria
- Drowsiness
- Light headed
- Numbness; tingling
Treatments for Hypoxia in flight?
- Lower altitudes
- Use of supplemental O2
Hypoxia is symptomatically similar to?
Hyperventilation
What is Hyperventilation?
Excessive rate and depth of respiration leading to abnormal loss of CO2 from blood
Treatment for Hyperventilation?
Breathing normally is best prevention and cure. Also, slow breathing rate, breath into bag
What are the regulations regarding supplemental O2 use?
91.211
- Cabin pressure above 12,500’ (MSL), up to and including 14,000’ (MSL) = MORE than 30 mins in duration
- Above 14,000’ MSL = Entire time at those altitudes
- Above 15,000’ MSL = Each occupant provided with supplemental O2
Day and night recommendations for O2 use?
Day - 10,000’
Night - 5,000’
What are the in-flight illusions?
ICEFLAGS
Inversion - Abrupt change from climb to S&L. Make pilot feel like they are tumbling backwards.
Coriolis - Occurs when pilot in turn long enough for fluid in ear canal to move at the same speed as the canal, then followed by abrupt head movement.
Elevator - Abrupt upward vertical acceleration. Creates illusion of being in a climb.
False Horizon - Sloping clouds, obscured horizon, and dark scene spread with ground lights & start. Can put a/c in dangerous attitude.
Leans - Sudden return to level flight after prolonged turn unnoticed by pilot.
Autokinesis - When flying in dark, stationary light may appear to move if stared at for extended period of time.
Graveyard Spiral - Prolonged constant rate turn creates illusion of not turning.
Somatographic - Rapid accelerations. Illusion of being nose up attitude.
What is spatial disorientation?
State of confusion due to misleading information being sent to brain from various sensory organs, resulting in lack of awareness of the a/c position in space
How can you prevent/treat spatial disorientation?
- Obtain preflight WX brief
- Obtain training and remain proficient in instrument training. (trust instruments always) before flying into conditions of reduced visibility.
- Maintain night currency
- Use only fixed visual references (to Earth)
- Avoid sudden head movements
- Proper rest, eat food, drink, and allow for proper night vision adaptation
What is motion sickness? Symptoms?
- Caused by continued stimulation of the inner ear, which controls the sense of balance.
Symptoms = loss of appetite. increased saliva, perspiration, nausea, disorientation, vomiting
How can you treat motion sickness?
- Open air vents
- Loosen clothing
- Use supplemental O2
- Keep eyes on a point outside airplane
- Open windows
- Avoid unnecessary head movements
What is carbon monoxide poisoning?
Colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. Significantly reduces ability of blood to carry O2
