If a passenger refuses medical attention during an emergency, what is the appropriate approach?

• A. Force them to accept medical treatment.
• B. Proceed without care.
• C. Respect patient autonomy, provide information, and notify medical professionals on the ground.
• D. Deny care if patient is non-compliant.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is handling medical decisions in an emergency with respect for the passenger’s rights. If a passenger is capable of making their own medical decisions, they have the right to refuse treatment. The best approach is to respect that autonomy while still helping them understand what’s being offered. Provide clear information about what a medical evaluation would involve, the potential benefits and risks, and the possible consequences of declining care. Then bring in medical expertise by notifying ground-based professionals who can advise on next steps or monitor the situation. You continue to observe the passenger and keep them safe, and you document the interaction and the refusal. Forcing treatment, proceeding without care, or denying care simply because someone is non-compliant conflicts with patient rights and typical in-flight medical protocols.