A Critical Mission - Air Ambulance Saves the Life of a Lung Cancer Patient
Bluedot recently necessitated the urgent transfer of an 89 year-old from Dubai to Bangkok. The person diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer, septic shock, acute kidney injury, and spinal cord compression was requiring immediate medical attention. Thorough preparations were hence made to secure essential equipment and medications for the journey, with the patient’s family providing informed consent accepting the potential risks associated with air travel.
In-Flight Care
Throughout the flight, the medical team closely monitored the patient’s vital signs, maintaining his airway and ventilation while administering medications to stabilize his condition. The team ensured continuous optimal care to counter the critical nature of his illness.
Incident during Air to Ground Transfer
Upon arriving at Bangkok, the patient suffered a sudden deterioration in health while transitioning from aircraft to ground ambulance. Despite previously stable vital signs, his oxygen saturation levels plummeted from 92% to 25%, accompanied by a steadily declining heart rate, indicating the onset of hypoxemia. Prompt assessment revealed a malfunction in the oxygen cylinder valve, leading to inadequate oxygen delivery. Recognizing the urgency, the medical team disconnected the patient from mechanical ventilation and swiftly initiated manual ventilation using a bag valve mask connected to an alternate oxygen source. For the next 20 to 25 minutes, the team tirelessly provided manual ventilation while monitoring the patient’s pulse and oxygen saturation levels until his condition stabilized.
Post-Transfer Handover
Following stabilization, the patient was transferred to the receiving facility with continued ground transport. Despite the initial crisis, the swift intervention and identification of the oxygen cylinder fault ensured the patient’s safety and facilitated a smooth transition to the receiving facility. Upon arrival, the patient was handed over to the ICU team, and his family received updates on his condition with assurances of ongoing care.
Conclusion
The transfer of this critically ill patient presented significant challenges compounded by a faulty oxygen cylinder. However, through prompt assessment, skilled medical intervention, and effective communication, the transfer was successfully completed. This case highlights the indispensable role of air ambulance services and experienced medical escorts in ensuring safe patient transfers, even under high-risk circumstances.
