What are the skipper's key responsibilities during an onboard medical emergency?

• A. Ensure safety, administer appropriate first aid, call for assistance, coordinate evacuation if needed, and communicate with crew.
• B. Ignore the emergency.
• C. Move the crew to the bow.
• D. Take no action.

Answer: (A)

When a medical issue happens on board, safety and timely care are the priorities. The skipper should first secure the scene to prevent further harm, assess the patient, and provide any appropriate first aid within training. Then call for help using the vessel’s communication equipment, giving clear details about location, the nature of the emergency, and how many people are affected. Assign a crew member to assist, keep others informed to reduce panic, and prepare the medical kit and any needed equipment. If the person needs more advanced care or evacuation, coordinate a safe transfer or medevac with shore or medical services.

This approach is best because it combines immediate, on-scene care with rapid access to professional help and orderly coordination for evacuation if needed. Other options ignore or delay necessary actions, which can worsen the situation and jeopardize everyone on board.