In the case of a medical emergency, who should the flight attendant contact first?

In a medical emergency situation on a flight, the flight attendant should first contact the Pilot in Command (PIC) and then call for a medical professional if needed. This is important because the PIC is responsible for the overall safety of the flight and is trained to assess the situation. The PIC can then make critical decisions, such as whether the flight needs to be diverted, if emergency medical assistance is required upon landing, or if onboard medical personnel should be alerted. By following this protocol, the flight attendant ensures that the emergency is handled appropriately and efficiently, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all passengers on board.

Reaching out to ground control or other passengers can be part of the response strategy, but the primary contact with the PIC is essential for immediate decision-making and action regarding the emergency situation. Engaging cabin crew can also be helpful for managing the situation, but the first step must be to inform the PIC as they have the ultimate authority and resources to address the emergency effectively.