Development of a pregnancy policy for air medical personnel: an administrative approach

Pregnancy of air medical personnel poses a unique challenge for the administration of air medical services. Pregnant staff vary in their approach to individual pregnancy and their desire to continue flight duties. Administrators are limited to actions that ensure optimal care for the patient regardless of the caregivers' health or condition. Air medical programs must balance what is acceptable for patient care and safety with what are legally acceptable practice restrictions. The Staff For Life helicopter service uses experts in obstetric care to evaluate the pregnant staff members' abilities to perform pre-determined physical duties associated with air medical care. A signed consent form acknowledging risk factors associated with air medical care ensures that the flight staff member has had a frank and honest discussion with her physician. The obstetric evaluation and consent form confirm for program administration a pregnant flight staff member's ability to function within her role and removes all ambiguity from the process.