Perth FIFO worker’s personal defibrillator helps passenger during medical emergency on Qantas flight

A Perth FIFO worker was about to settle in for his flight to work when he came to the rescue of a fellow passenger who suddenly collapsed on the plane. A Qantas flight from Perth to Newman was just minutes from taking off on Monday morning when a passenger began to suffer from severe chest pain radiating down his left arm — symptoms commonly associated with cardiac distress. Among flight QF1702, which was filled mostly with FIFO workers, was Philip Taulelei who has advanced medical training from his military service. The FIFO worker quickly jumped into action with his personal defibrillator when the man in his 40s suddenly collapsed in the middle of the aisle. A paramedic on board called for a defibrillator, which Mr Taulelei said he always packs in his carry on luggage. “The man collapsed in the aisle and suddenly became less responsive,” Mr Taulelei said. “The paramedic in charge asked for a DFIB. They had one on the aircraft but that was a couple of minutes away but with mine we had it on his chest within seconds.” Mr Taulelei’s portable defibrillator called CellAED remained on the man’s chest for over 12 minutes as it monitored his heart rhythm and prepared to administer a shock if needed. Fortunately no shocks were required before an ambulance arrived and took the man to Royal Perth Hospital. The flight, which was meant to take off at 6.15am on Monday, eventually departed three hours later. “If he deteriorated he was in the best place because we had all the right gear and people to help him,” Mr Taulelei said. “I was absolutely stoked I was able to help.” Rapid Response Revival chief medical officer Steven Brooks said every minute counts when it comes to heart attacks. “The fact that a passenger was carrying a CellAED could have made all the difference had the patient continued to deteriorate,” he said.