What action should flight attendants take once they summon help in a medical emergency?

In the event of a medical emergency onboard, once help has been summoned, flight attendants should take the action of gathering all necessary equipment and notifying the rest of the crew. This is crucial because having the right medical equipment and supplies on hand can significantly enhance the quality of care provided to the affected passenger. The flight attendants are trained to manage such emergencies efficiently and part of that involves ensuring that their colleagues are aware of the situation, so they can assist as needed.

Additionally, notifying the rest of the crew means that everyone is informed and prepared to help or provide support, whether by facilitating access for medical responders upon arrival or managing other passengers’ needs during the incident. This coordinated approach optimizes response times and helps maintain a calm environment.

The other options do not align with the best practices established for managing medical emergencies in-flight. Leaving a passenger alone while waiting for help can lead to worsening of their condition. Immediately administering medical assistance without having the right equipment or prior coordination with the crew may lead to confusion or inadequate care. Lastly, requesting permission to leave duties could delay needed assistance, as their first priority should be to attend to the emergency rather than seeking approval.