How is a suspected seizure disorder managed in aircrew?

• A. Switch to a different aircraft
• B. Do not fly; seek medical clearance; treat underlying condition; ensure safety.
• C. Continue flying with monitoring
• D. Use sedatives to prevent seizures

Answer: (B)

When a seizure disorder is suspected in aircrew, safety takes priority and the person is not cleared to fly until proper medical evaluation has been completed. The best approach is to stop flying, seek medical clearance, treat the underlying condition, and ensure safety for everyone on board. Grounding prevents the risk of sudden in-flight loss of consciousness or uncontrolled movements that could endanger the crew and passengers. The evaluation typically involves a thorough medical and neurological workup to determine the cause, determine the appropriate treatment (such as antiepileptic therapy if indicated), ensure there are no drug interactions with aviation duties, and establish that the condition is adequately controlled. Only after successful management and formal medical clearance should return to flight be considered. Sedatives to prevent seizures are not appropriate, as they can depress cognitive and operational performance and complicate flight duties. Merely switching aircraft or continuing with monitoring does not address the underlying risk.