Do flight attendants need CPR certification and medical training for emergencies

Training involves simulation-based drills to ensure readiness for real scenarios, like sudden cardiac arrests. Quick emergency response is vital, as the survival chances decrease by 7-10% with each minute CPR is delayed. CPR and AED training are not just for flight attendants but are valuable for all industries.

Safety regulations demand strict compliance. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates certain emergency equipment aboard aircraft, including CPR masks and defibrillators. Flight attendants must complete advanced first aid and medical training initially and take annual recurrent courses to refresh their skills.

Before each flight, flight attendants are briefed on safety and medical procedures. CPR and AED handling, as well as responses to choking, are practiced during training with resuscitation simulators.

In medical emergencies, flight attendants maintain calm professionalism. They aim to preserve life, prevent further deterioration, and promote recovery. The SAMPLE guideline helps assess the patient's condition rapidly. Team coordination and emergency communication are crucial, as flight attendants might need to swap roles during life support, ensuring the best possible patient care.

Both the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) require flight attendants to have CPR qualifications, emphasizing these skills' importance both professionally and in everyday life. Some airlines require valid first aid and CPR certification upon recruitment. Cardiac events are a leading cause of flight diversions, underscoring the necessity of comprehensive first aid training for flight attendants.