Premex Services

3d Angel jumps to Virgin challenge

During a recent Virgin transatlantic flight to LA there was a call for medical assistance from the flight crew.

Without hesitation, Patricia Coulter who was travelling to LA on holiday rushed to offer her assistance and was directed to a man suffering from a serious nose bleed. After reassuring her fellow passenger and taking a snap shot medical history Patricia discovered that the passenger had a pacemaker and was on blood thinning medication, which had caused the nose bleed. 

Whilst Patricia was working to stabilise the situation in an effort to stop the bleeding, she made plans with the 'In Flight Manager' just in case the bleeding continued. This was important as there were at least another eight hours to go until the flight landed. Fortunately, Patricia established the bleeding point and then sat with the passenger until he was stable and the bleeding had stopped. After assisting the passenger’s wife clean him up and washing his face and mouth, Patricia further reassured the passenger, his family and crew in relation to the situation. The situation stabilised for four hours until a second episode occurred and Patricia again assisted the passenger and performed the same tasks until he was comfortable. After this, Patricia checked him on an hourly basis until the plane landed.  

Patricia advises that due to her past experience as an in-flight nurse and intensive care nurse she was able to quickly and quietly cope with the situation.

Prior to landing Patricia was handed a bottle of champagne by the crew and captain and then presented with a box of chocolates by the passengers wife.  Since arriving home, Patricia has received a letter from Virgin Atlantic Airlines thanking her for the assistance she provided and a voucher for £100.  

Patricia commented ‘To be honest I was only too happy to lend a helping hand and assist with the emergency and was really proud to receive the lovely letter from Virgin Atlantic'

Patricia Coulter RGN, RN, Dip Neuro, BSc (Hons) Prof Studies is the South West Regional Manager for 3d Risk Solutions