How should you manage a passenger who faints (syncope) on board?

• A. Help them lie flat if possible, check breathing, provide oxygen if available, and call for medical help.
• B. Shake them vigorously to revive them.
• C. Move them to the back row.
• D. Give them hot coffee.

Answer: (A)

Fainting happens when blood flow to the brain drops briefly, so the goal is to restore perfusion and keep the airway clear while getting medical help. The best approach is to help the passenger lie flat if possible and raise the legs to encourage blood return to the heart and brain. Check their breathing right away; if they’re breathing, monitor them and keep them comfortable, and provide oxygen if it’s available. Then alert the cabin crew and seek medical assistance from professionals on board. If they’re unresponsive and not breathing, start CPR and use the onboard AED as trained. Keep them warm, loosen tight clothing, and stay with them until help arrives.

Shaking them vigorously can cause injury and doesn’t address the underlying issue. Moving them to the back row can delay care and is not typically helpful. Giving hot coffee isn’t appropriate and could worsen symptoms.