In the microgravity confines of the International Space Station, medical incidents are managed through a blend of pre‑flight preparation and onboard protocols developed by international space agencies. The crew undergoes periodic health checks and is trained in basic first aid and the use of the station’s biomedical kit, which includes analgesics, antipyretics, suture materials, and a compact pulse oximeter. Communication with ground medical specialists via real‑time video link enables detailed patient assessment even when the crew cannot perform invasive procedures themselves. _2_ Participants are routinely instructed in the operation of the Health Management System, a software platform that automatically records vital signs and flags thresholds that may indicate distress. In the event of an acute illness, the crew follows a step‑wise emergency triage, begins with stabilizing vital parameters, then escalates to more advanced interventions. The station’s limited supplies impose constraints, so non‑invasive diagnostics and careful monitoring are prioritized to avoid the need for complex equipment that would be impractical in low‑gravity. _3_ Future advancements focus on expanding the BMI inventory with foldable, 3‑D printed diagnostic tools, improving telemedicine bandwidth, and analysing micro‑environmental factors that alter drug pharmacokinetics. Research into pharmacological agents tailored for microgravity may reduce the risk of adverse reactions and improve drug efficacy, providing safer medical care for crews on longer visits to orbit and potential missions beyond. The integration of autonomous systems for medication tracking and supply resupply will further streamline care, enabling a more robust and responsive medical framework in space habitats.
Spaceborne Triage: Managing Illnesses Beyond Earth