What should a flight attendant do if a passenger is feeling unwell during the flight?

When a passenger is feeling unwell during a flight, the flight attendant's first responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. Informing the captain and following established protocols for medical emergencies is the appropriate course of action. This process allows the captain to assess the situation, potentially coordinate with medical professionals on the ground, and determine if any special measures need to be taken, including diverting the flight if necessary.

Consulting the captain ensures that proper procedures are followed, which may involve accessing medical supplies, preparing for an emergency landing, or contacting medics. Following protocols is crucial because it guarantees that any necessary steps are taken in a systematic and safe manner.

Providing medication without consulting the captain can lead to unforeseen complications, as flight attendants are typically not authorized to administer medication unless specifically trained to do so in emergency situations. Asking the passenger to wait until landing could exacerbate their condition and delay necessary assistance, while ignoring the situation altogether could endanger the passenger's health and safety. Thus, informing the captain and adhering to medical emergency protocols is the most responsible and effective action a flight attendant can take in this scenario.