Good Samaritans still need ID

I was on a United Airlines flight from Washington Dulles to Frankfurt, Germany, in June ’07 when the call came out for medical personnel to identify themselves. A passenger had fainted and fallen and remained unconscious.

A neurologist on board was unable to directly assist the patient since she did not have her medical license with her. Another doctor and I (an R.N.) treated the passenger, taking vital signs and checking her pupils for reactivity.

I asked the airline staff if a flat bed was available in first class and, luckily, there was one. When the passenger could walk, I assisted her down the aisle and got her settled, checking on her a few times during the flight. I am a former surgical nurse with much experience in neurotrauma.

The neurologist was able to offer suggestions but could not touch the patient.

In this age of litigation, it is crucial to bring a copy of your medical/nursing/EMT license when traveling.

By the way, I give United an A+ for their handling of the situation.

NANCI SCHEITHAUER
Santa Fe, NM