During an in-flight medical emergency, how should aircrew coordinate with medical control?

• A. Wait for ground support
• B. Maintain concise radio communication, follow established protocols, and report critical patient data
• C. Use non-standard procedures
• D. Communicate only after landing

Answer: (B)

When a medical emergency occurs in flight, get medical control on the radio right away and keep the communication concise, using established protocols. The goal is to get expert guidance while you deliver care, so report critical patient data clearly and quickly. Share essential information such as the patient’s age or sex if known, chief complaint, current mental status, vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation), apparent or suspected diagnosis, allergies, current medications and recent doses, any medical devices in use, and interventions already performed (for example, oxygen flow, CPR, airway management, medications given). Also include pertinent flight details like estimated time to landing and any changes in the patient’s condition. Request specific instructions or permissions as needed and be prepared to repeat or adjust details as directed. Waiting for ground support, using non-standard procedures, or delaying contact until after landing can jeopardize patient safety.