Helmet use: What message are we sending to patients?

Abstract Multiple studies have demonstrated that the use of helmets by helicopter personnel saves lives and reduces morbidity. However, papers continue to cite potential adverse reaction from patients and the public as a justification for air medical personnel not wearing the helmets. This study was conducted to determine how patients transported by helicopter react to helmets worn by air medical personnel. Fifty-one adult patients with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15 were surveyed regarding their reaction to helmet use by air medical personnel. While the respondents had various concerns about the aircraft and flying, none had a negative reaction to the helmet use. Helmet use does not have a negative effect on patients, and such a putative effect should not be used to justify the avoidance of by air medical personnel.