Aeromedical Factors Flashcards
(23 cards)
Which regulations pertain to medical certification?
14 CFR Part 67
What is the IMSAFE checklist?
Illness Medication Stress Alcohol Fatigue Emotion
What is hypoxia?
Oxygen deficiency which impairs brain/body function
At what altitudes is hypoxia likely to occur?
Above 12000’, however it can occur as low as 5000’
What are some symptoms of hypoxia?
Judgment, memory, alertness, coordination are impaired Headache Drowsiness Dizziness Euphoria Belligerence
What factors can make a pilot more susceptible to hypoxia?
Carbon monoxide (smoking, exhaust fumes, etc.) Anemia Certain medications Small amounts of alcohol Extreme heat or cold Fever Anxiety
How can hypoxia be avoided?
Use oxygen above 10000’ during the day, and 5000’ at night
What is hyperventilation?
Abnormal increase in breathing in and out, caused by stress
Results in decrease in CO2 in bloodstream
What are the symptoms of hyperventilation?
Lightheadedness Suffocation Drowsiness Tingling in extremities Coolness
How can hyperventilation be reversed?
Slow breathing rate
Breathe in and out of a paper bag
What is the location and functions of the rods in the eye?
In a ring around the cones
Peripheral and night vision
When adjusted to darkness, rods are 100,000 times more sensitive to light than cones
What is the location and function of cones in the eye?
Located in the center of the retina
Detect color, detail, faraway objects
After adjusted to darkness, cones are 100 times more sensitive
What can you do to improve effectiveness of vision at night?
Adapt eyes prior to flight (30 minutes) Use oxygen Close one eye when exposed to bright light Do not wear sunglasses Move eyes more slowly Blink if eyes become blurred Concentrate on seeing objects Force the eyes to view off center Maintain good physical health, no drinking, smoking, drugs, etc.
What is ear block?
Caused by difference in pressure in middle ear and cabin
How is ear block normally prevented?
Swallowing, yawning, tensing muscles in throat
Valsalva method-pinching nose and attempting to exhale through nostrils
What is spatial disorientation?
Lack of orientation with regard to position in space and to other objects
What causes spatial disorientation?
Forces of flight affect visual, vestibular (inner ear), and postural senses, providing misleading information to the brain
What causes motion sickness?
Continued stimulation of the portion of the inner ear that regulates balance
What actions should be taken if a pilot or passenger is experiencing motion sickness?
Open air vents
Loosen clothing
Use supplemental oxygen
Keep eyes on point outside the airplane
What regulations/best practices apply to the use of alcohol?
8 hours-bottle to throttle
Pilots should wait 12-24 hours after consuming alcohol before flying
What is carbon monoxide poisoning?
CO reduces the ability of the blood to carry oxygen
Symptoms of hypoxia occur
What actions should be taken if carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected?
Shut off heater
Open fresh air vents
Obtain medical treatment if symptoms are severe, or continue after landing
How long should a pilot wait after scuba diving to fly at cabin pressures less than 8000’?
12 hours, if dive did not require a controlled ascent
24 hours, if dive required a controlled ascent
