Task BCM0102

1
Motion Sickness

• Task BCM-01-02

2
Objectives

• Explain causes of motion sickness
• List the symptoms of motion sickness
• List prevention and medication
• Explain when best to take medication

3
Causes

• Motion sickness (seasickness) occurs when there
  is an imbalance between visual images and the
  portion of the middle ear which senses motion.
  Mental and physical stress, as well as the
  rolling or pitching motion of a boat, contribute
  to motion sickness. Reading chart work, or other
  tasks that require close attention, will
  aggravate motion sickness.

4
Symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased salivation
• Unusual paleness
• Sweating
• Drowsiness
• Overall weakness
• Stomach discomfort

5
Prevention

• Motion sickness can often be prevented or made
  less severe with different kinds of medication,
  including the use of Scopolamine patches. Crew
  members who are especially susceptible to motion
  discomfort should take medication when weather
  and sea conditions may cause motion sickness.

6
Prevention W/O Medication

• Stay out of confined spaces
• Stay above deck in the fresh air
• Avoid concentrating on the movement of the boat
  by looking out over the water toward the horizon
  or shoreline
• Avoid smoking

7
Sea Sick?

• Have you ever experienced motion sickness?
• Is your unit in an area where heavy seas are
  common?
• What can you do to prevent sea sickness?