What is the proper protocol when a medical professional on board requests assistance with a medical device?

• A. Acknowledge, relay to medical team, prepare the kit if required, document the event, and keep cockpit informed.
• B. Acknowledge, relay to medical team, prepare the kit if required, respect patient privacy, and keep cockpit informed.
• C. Ignore the request, continue flight operations, and inform the authorities after landing.
• D. Prepare the kit first, then contact the medical team, and await further instructions.

Answer: (B)

When a medical professional on board asks for help with a medical device, the focus is on delivering timely, coordinated medical support while protecting the patient’s privacy and maintaining flight safety. The best approach is to acknowledge the request, promptly relay the situation to the medical team, and be ready to assist by preparing the kit if needed. At the same time, preserve patient confidentiality—share only the information necessary with the medical team and those who need to know. Keeping the cockpit informed ensures the flight crew is aware of the medical situation and can adjust plans or respond to any changes. This combination keeps medical care effective, obeys privacy expectations, and maintains safe flight operations.

The other options fall short because they either skip essential steps (like engaging the medical team in a timely way or not informing the cockpit) or add elements that compromise privacy or safety (such as ignoring the request or sharing unnecessary details with others).