How should you coordinate with medical staff on board when CPR or other medical care is required?

• A. Provide assistance as directed by medical staff and captain; keep others away from interfering
• B. Take charge and override medical staff
• C. Do nothing
• D. Inform the ground team only

Answer: (A)

When a medical emergency arises on board, the captain keeps overall control of the flight, and any medical care is guided by the onboard medical professional(s). The cabin crew supports by following their instructions. This arrangement ensures the patient receives appropriate care while maintaining safe aircraft operation and a clear chain of command. So you provide assistance as directed, help clear and protect the area, fetch equipment, and keep the captain informed of the patient’s status. Interfering with the medical staff or trying to take charge yourself can create confusion and endanger both the patient and the flight. Merely informing ground support without addressing immediate needs on board isn’t sufficient.