Kerala Nurses Save Passenger’s Life on Flight to Abu Dhabi
A routine flight to the UAE turned into a dramatic life-saving event for two young nurses from Kerala. Abhijith Jees and Ajeesh Nelson, both newly hired Registered Nurses, found themselves in a critical situation just 20 minutes into their journey on Air Arabia flight 3L128 from Kochi to Abu Dhabi.
A Life-Threatening Emergency
At approximately 5:50 AM, while the plane was flying over the Arabian Sea, Abhijith noticed a fellow passenger gasping for air. Upon closer inspection, he discovered a 34-year-old man from Thrissur who was unresponsive. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Abhijith immediately checked for a pulse and confirmed that the man was in cardiac arrest.
“I knew I had to act fast,” Abhijith recounted. “I started CPR and called for assistance from the crew.” Ajeesh quickly joined him, and together they executed their training with remarkable composure.
Teamwork Under Pressure
The two nurses worked seamlessly, performing two rounds of CPR to stabilize the passenger. Their calm demeanor and focus were crucial in this high-pressure environment. “There was no panic,” Ajeesh stated. “We just concentrated on what needed to be done.”
Dr. Arif Abdul Khadir, a physician on board, provided additional support by administering intravenous fluids and monitoring the passenger’s condition. Thanks to their combined efforts, the man eventually regained a pulse and began to breathe again.
A Grateful Response
After the plane landed safely in Abu Dhabi, the nurses continued to their new workplace without discussing the incident. However, the story was later shared by Brint Anto, a fellow traveler and RPM employee. The management of Response Plus Medical (RPM) recognized the nurses for their quick and professional response.
Dr. Rohil Raghavan, CEO of RPM, commended their actions, stating, “Ajeesh and Abhijith have exemplified the true spirit of RPM by saving a life outside the hospital environment.” Dr. Mohamed Ali, Medical Director of RPM Projects, emphasized the critical nature of timely intervention in cardiac emergencies, noting that “every second counts.”
The Passenger’s Recovery
The passenger received immediate medical attention upon landing, and his family expressed profound gratitude for the nurses’ intervention. “They were strangers, yet they gave our loved one another chance at life. Their kindness and courage will always stay in our prayers,” the family remarked.
For Abhijith and Ajeesh, the experience highlighted the essence of their profession. “We came to the UAE to start our careers, and saving a life on the way made us realize what this profession truly means,” Ajeesh reflected. Abhijith added, “That morning in the sky will stay with us forever.”
FAQs
What happened during the flight?
Two nurses performed CPR on a passenger who suffered a cardiac arrest mid-flight, successfully stabilizing him until the plane landed.
Who assisted the nurses during the emergency?
A doctor on board, Dr. Arif Abdul Khadir, provided additional medical support, including IV fluids and monitoring the passenger’s condition.
How did the airline respond to the incident?
The management of Response Plus Medical recognized the nurses for their quick and professional actions, highlighting the importance of timely medical intervention.
Conclusion
The quick actions of Abhijith Jees and Ajeesh Nelson not only saved a life but also underscored the vital role of healthcare professionals, even outside of traditional settings. Their experience serves as a reminder of the impact that timely medical intervention can have in emergencies. As they begin their careers in the UAE, their heroic act will undoubtedly shape their professional journey.
The incident aboard Air Arabia flight 3L128 serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of preparedness in emergency situations. The presence of trained medical professionals on flights can significantly enhance the chances of survival for passengers facing health crises. Airlines often encourage crew members to be equipped with basic first aid skills, but having healthcare professionals on board can provide an additional layer of support.
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the need for emergency response training among healthcare workers, particularly in high-stress environments. This incident not only highlights the effectiveness of such training but also reinforces the value of teamwork in critical situations. The collaboration between the nurses and the physician exemplifies how diverse expertise can come together to achieve a common goal—saving a life. As Abhijith and Ajeesh continue their nursing careers in the UAE, their experience may inspire others in the healthcare field to remain vigilant and ready to act in emergencies, regardless of their setting.
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