What is the procedure during a medical emergency while on watch?

In a medical emergency while on watch, the primary procedure is to notify the Officer of the Deck and provide necessary first aid. This approach is essential for several reasons.

First, the Officer of the Deck is in charge of the overall supervision of the watch team and coordinating a response to any emergencies. Prompt notification ensures that the appropriate resources and personnel can be dispatched to the scene effectively.

Second, providing necessary first aid is crucial because immediate action can significantly affect the outcome of the medical situation. The ability to administer first aid can stabilize the injured person and potentially save lives while waiting for more extensive medical assistance to arrive.

In contrast, calling for all available crew members to assist, while well-meaning, can lead to confusion and disorganization if not directed by the Officer of the Deck. Waiting for the next shift to handle the emergency is not acceptable as it can lead to delays in critical care. Writing it down in the watch log may document the event but does not provide immediate assistance to the person in need. Thus, taking prompt action by notifying the Officer of the Deck and administering first aid is the correct procedure during a medical emergency on watch.