What actions should be taken if a diver shows signs of decompression sickness after surfacing?

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Multiple Choice

What actions should be taken if a diver shows signs of decompression sickness after surfacing?

Decompression sickness after surfacing is a medical emergency that demands immediate action. The priority is to move the diver to a safe area, get medical evaluation started right away, and transport to a hyperbaric facility following the established emergency protocol. If available, administer 100% oxygen to help reduce nitrogen bubbles and improve tissue oxygenation while arranging treatment. Hyperbaric recompression is the definitive treatment and is most effective when begun promptly, so delays can allow symptoms to worsen or new symptoms to develop. Going back into the water or continuing the dive would add more decompression stress and delay definitive care, and waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own risks progression and potential complications.

Decompression sickness after surfacing is a medical emergency that demands immediate action. The priority is to move the diver to a safe area, get medical evaluation started right away, and transport to a hyperbaric facility following the established emergency protocol. If available, administer 100% oxygen to help reduce nitrogen bubbles and improve tissue oxygenation while arranging treatment. Hyperbaric recompression is the definitive treatment and is most effective when begun promptly, so delays can allow symptoms to worsen or new symptoms to develop. Going back into the water or continuing the dive would add more decompression stress and delay definitive care, and waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own risks progression and potential complications.

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