Re: altitude question

[AAFLTMEDIC@aol.com]

A quick follow up to the perception that altitude is minimally or not 
important if flying in a pressurized aircraft. Remember that even a 
"pressurized" aircraft is rarely at the same "pressure" or relative altitude 
as that from where they originated at the sending facility. Most long range 
aeromedical transports, regardless of aircraft type, are pressurized to the 
equivalent of 6-8 thousand feet due to many flight considerations such as 
fuel efficiencies, etc. Therefore, while at 35,000 feet in the Lear jet, 
etc., don't forget that your patient physiologically is likely feeling as if 
they are on top of the mountains below you. Therefore, increased O2 needs, 
relative hypoxia, potential for respiratory/metabolic acid-base changes, etc. 
due to the reasons cited in the journal articles by Ann.

If any list members have corrections, additions, please comment.

Thanks,

Chris Poulsen

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