Seizure rescue medications are missing from in-flight medical emergency kits

Abstract

ObjectiveWe aimed to inquire whether any seizure rescue medications are included in the in-flight medical emergency kits of the main airlines in the world. This data could help the airline authorities update their strategies in light of any shortcomings. MethodsFirst, we identified ten major airlines in the world. Then, we searched the Google engine with the following keywords: “name of the airline” and “in-flight medical emergency” or “first aid kit” or “emergency kit”. In case there was no information on the web, we emailed the airlines and inquired about the contents of their in-flight medical emergency kits. We also investigated some of the major aviation organizations’ websites [i.e., Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and International Air Transport Association (IATA)]. ResultsNone of the major airlines were equipped with easily applicable seizure rescue medications (i.e., buccal midazolam, a nasal spray of midazolam, or intranasal diazepam).The AsMA and ICAO recommend including injectable sedative anticonvulsant drugs in the in-flight medical emergency kits without any further specifications. The IATA does not provide specific recommendations for including seizure rescue medications in the in-flight medical emergency kits. ConclusionA seizure is a significant in-flight medical emergency event. The use of easily applicable seizure rescue medications during prolonged or repeated seizures is significantly associated with fewer sequelae for the affected person. Easily applicable seizure rescue medications should be included in the in-flight medical emergency kits, and the cabin crew should receive training on how and when to use them.