As a student observer in the late 80's we used PATCASATNE (or something similar, memory is old and dull now). C for Course instead of H for Heading. Anyway...
We were at the "emergency declaration" phase of training and I do remember hearing on the radio. "Culdrose approach, err... Juliet 67 ...err...(and then in an excited voice) PATCASATNE, PATCASATNE, PATCASATNE". Followed shortly by what sounded like a thwack and the immortal words, still on transmit " I'm doing the best I can". :-)
Having dealt with a few from the other end as an ATCO, usually the first "MAYDAY" is enough to get everyone awake and searching for the transmitting aircraft. That one word alone certainly focuses the mind.