Assessment of Family Medicine Physicians' and Residents' Knowledge in Managing In-Flight Medical Emergencies: A...

In-flight medical emergencies (IMEs) pose unique challenges for healthcare professionals due to the limited resources and confined environment of aircraft. Despite the potential severity of such incidents, there is limited research on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical professionals regarding IMEs, particularly in specific regions such as Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving preparedness and ensuring better outcomes for passengers experiencing medical emergencies during flights.

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among family medicine residents and primary healthcare physicians in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. A total of 155 participants were recruited from the Family Medicine Academy and affiliated primary healthcare centers. Data were collected using an online, self-administered questionnaire covering demographic information, previous training attendance, beliefs about IMEs, knowledge of managing IMEs, and attitudes and practices toward IMEs. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23 (Released 2015; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York), employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for qualitative data.

The study revealed that 51.0% of participants (n = 79) had inadequate knowledge, while 49.0% (n = 76) demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding IMEs. There were no significant differences in knowledge levels across demographic factors, including gender, nationality, current qualifications, country of medical education, marital status, and monthly income. However, income below 10,000 SAR (Saudi riyal) was associated with higher rates of inadequate knowledge. Despite a willingness to volunteer during IMEs, participants expressed concerns about legal issues and their confidence in managing such emergencies. Practical responses to hypothetical IME scenarios varied widely, with correct responses ranging from 19.4% to 80.6%.

The findings underscore significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among healthcare professionals in Qassim regarding IMEs. Despite a strong sense of duty to volunteer, participants expressed apprehensions about their competence and legal liabilities. Enhanced training programs and clearer guidelines are needed to improve preparedness and confidence among medical professionals, ultimately ensuring better outcomes for passengers experiencing in-flight medical emergencies.