Human Performance and Limitations
Physiological Factors
Study hypoxia, hyperventilation, ear and sinus problems, spatial disorientation, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Know symptoms and corrective actions. For example, hypoxia symptoms include euphoria, headache, and impaired judgment; correct by descending or using supplemental oxygen.
Psychological Factors
Understand the decision-making process, hazardous attitudes (anti-authority, impulsivity, invulnerability, macho, resignation), and the antidotes. Also, stress, fatigue, and workload management.
Traps
Questions often describe a scenario and ask which hazardous attitude is present. For example, "Don't worry, I can handle it" is invulnerability. Another trap: confusing hypoxia with hyperventilation. Hyperventilation causes dizziness and tingling; hypoxia causes euphoria and cyanosis.
Worked Example
A pilot feels lightheaded and has rapid breathing after a stressful event. This is likely hyperventilation. Treatment: slow breathing, talk aloud.
Rule of Thumb
Use the "IMSAFE" checklist: Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Emotion. For hazardous attitudes, remember the antidotes: "Follow the rules" (anti-authority), "Think first" (impulsivity), "It could happen to me" (invulnerability), "Taking chances is foolish" (macho), "I can make a difference" (resignation).