VIII. Human Factors Flashcards
Are flight crew members allowed to use any medications while performing required duties?
Pilots are prohibited from using any medication that affects the faculties in any way contrary to safety.
Is it safe to fly after using over the counter medications?
Certain OTC medications are safe to use.
A key factor - if the medication indicates “may cause drowsiness”…
or “be careful when operating a motor vehicle or operating machinery.”
*Some medications depress the central nervous system and can make a pilot more susceptible to hypoxia.
List the factors that may contribute to impairment of a pilot’s performance. (AIM 8-1-1)
Remember: IMSAFE
Illness
Medication
Stress
Alcohol
Fatigue
Emotion/Eating
What is “Hypoxia”?
State of oxygen deficiency in the body, impairing functions of the brain and other organs.
What are the 4 forms of hypoxia?Briefly explain them.
Hypoxic - Insufficient oxygen available. Think: high altitude.
Hypemic - Oxygen deficiency in the blood, rather than inhaled. CO2 poisoning.
Stagnant - Oxygen rich blood isn’t getting to where it’s needed. G force, or constriction.
Histotoxic - Cells can’t effectively use oxygen, despite normal delivery. Because of alcohol or other drugs.
What altitudes does hypoxia usually occur?
- Deterioration of night vision occurs as low at 5,000ft.
- hypoxia usually does not occur in a healthy pilot below 12,000ft.
What are some of the symptoms a pilot can expect when hypoxic?
Headache, drowsiness, nausea, and behavioral changes like euphoria or irritability.
Lightheadedness, Dizziness
Tingling or warm sensations, Sweating, Poor coordination
Impaired judgment
Blueness of the lips and fingertips (cyanosis)
*Ultimately loss of consciousness
What are some factors that may make a pilot more susceptible to hypoxia?
a. Carbon monoxide from smoking or exhaust fumes
b. Anemia
c. Medications
d. Alcohol
e. Extreme heat or cold
What is “hyperventilation”?
Rapid breathing that can occur subconsciously during a stressful situation.
When you breathe too fast, you’re letting out too much carbon dioxide from your body.
Carbon dioxide helps regulate the breathing process.
What are some symptoms of hyperventilation?
Feeling lightheaded, drowsiness, tingling in the extremities. Pale and clammy skin.
Your passenger is hyperventilating. How can you help them reverse the condition?
- Controlled breathing in and out of a paper bag.
- Talking aloud, or sing “row your boat”
What is ear block?
Eustachian tube has difficulty equalizing pressure in the ear during descent. Usually caused by upper respiratory infection, or nasal allergic condition.
Ear block produces severe pain, and loss of hearing (for several hours or even days).
How can you prevent ear block from occurring?
Swallowing, yawning, tensing muscles in the throat, Valsalva maneuver (pinch nose and blow).
Cancel flight when dealing with an upper respiratory infection or nasal allergies.
What actions should be taken if a pilot or passenger suffers from motion sickness?
- Airsick bag (advise passengers before flight)
- Open air vents, or windows.
- Supplemental oxygen helps.
- Tell passenger to look outside, and limit head movement
When can a pilot fly after drinking alcohol?
8 hours after drinking, however a pilot can still be under the influence after that time.
Better to wait 12-24 hours.
