What is the role of the first flight attendant in a medical emergency?

In a medical emergency on board an aircraft, the role of the first flight attendant is crucial, particularly in summoning additional help and alerting the captain. This responsibility is vital because it ensures that the situation is escalated appropriately and that the captain is made aware of the emergency as soon as possible. The captain may need to make decisions regarding the flight’s route, potential diversion landing, or communicate with medical professionals on the ground, all of which can significantly impact the outcome of the emergency.

The first flight attendant is typically the first to assess the severity of the situation and determine if additional crew or medical personnel are needed. By effectively communicating the situation to the captain, the first flight attendant plays a pivotal role in coordinating the response, thereby ensuring that the passenger in need receives prompt medical attention and assistance.