In-flight medical monitoring

Andy Ashworth

doi:10.3399/bjgp24X736773

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In flight medical monitoring
John Sharvill

Published on: 09 May 2024
In flight medical monitoring
Anthony Cedric Stacey

Published on: 08 April 2024

Published on: (9 May 2024)
Page navigation anchor for In flight medical monitoring
In flight medical monitoring
John Sharvill, GP, NHS
Commercial aircraft SATS data is readily available, but it may differ based on cabin pressure. Establishing a standard for each aircraft, along with a conversion between USA and international glucose meter readings, might help. However, individuals with COPD who typically have lower SATS levels might struggle adjusting for altitude. In such cases, is it better not to have SATS at all?

Competing Interests: None declared.
Published on: (8 April 2024)
Page navigation anchor for In flight medical monitoring
In flight medical monitoring
Anthony Cedric Stacey, Retired GP, Occupational and Aviation Physician, N/A
I was interested to read of Dr Ashworth's disappointment with the lack of monitoring equipment on board his long-haul flight. My own experience whilst returning from the Far East on a major holiday carrier's Boeing 787 Dreamliner was much better.

An automatic sphygmomanometer was readily available which was fortunate because as Dr Ashworth implies brachial pulse and heart sounds are almost impossible to hear even on the quietest of aircraft. A defibrillator, pulse oximeter, and glucometer together with intra aural temperature device were all within the kit and the cabin crew seemed reasonably familiar with their use.

My own particular dilemma was what to accept as a satisfactory reading, on the pulse oximeter, in an aircraft flying at 38,000 feet, with say a cabin pressure of 6,500 feet. I too have experience in aeromedical work but long before pulse oximeters became commonly available! Before we pack these devices into our hand luggage perhaps an airline medical department, or the CAA could offer advice?

Competing Interests: None declared.