It is important that the medical flight taken by a patient is both safe and comfortable. Following certain guidelines ensures that the medical flight transport is carried out smoothly and quickly. Here, we discuss the vital considerations that must top your mind.
Proper Documentation for Medical Flight
Laws specify that transfer orders by the treating physician and acceptance documents by the receiving facility must be in order before the patient boards a medical flight. Also, the patient’s medical chart, discharge summary, lab results and other medical information must be carried. A photo ID is vital and must be kept handy. Consent for medical flight transport must be sent to the air ambulance operator beforehand.
Medications and Equipments during the Medical Flight
An IV access must be ready. If the patient does not need IV access on a continuing basis, it can be capped. All medications that are necessary and those that are meant for comfort must be administered. These meds must also be provided to the crew in case the need arises midair. This also includes IV medications.
Casts, Traction, and Diapers
If the patient is being treated with a circumferential cast, it must be bivalved beforehand. Hanging weights for traction are not suited for a medical flight. Appropriate traction device must be used instead. An unconscious patient must be diapered prior to transfer to the medical flight and any tube feeding must be discontinued about 7 to 8 hours in advance.
Accompanying the Patient in Medical Flight
The passenger accompanying the patient must have prior approval. If the condition of the patient demands that no one accompanies him or her during the medical flight, the passenger must comply. Most fixed wing aircrafts have limited space and one must understand that it is essential for the medical staff to have enough space to function efficiently. Even when accompanying the patient, the passenger must occupy minimum space possible.
Knowing these guidelines well in advance helps make the medical flight travel a comfortable one.
