Which action is most appropriate if the diver shows signs of decompression sickness?

• A. Stop the dive and begin emergency procedures
• B. Ascend to the surface immediately
• C. Ignore symptoms
• D. Seek medical attention after emergency response

Answer: (A)

When signs of decompression sickness appear, the action that best protects the diver is to stop the dive and begin emergency procedures. Decompression sickness is a medical emergency caused by dissolved gases forming bubbles in tissues and blood as you ascend. Stopping the dive immediately halts any further bubble formation and sets the stage for rapid treatment. Beginning emergency procedures ensures the diver receives high-flow oxygen to help shrink bubbles and oxygenate tissues, plus rapid access to medical care, ideally a hyperbaric chamber. Time matters because earlier treatment improves outcomes and reduces the risk of progression to more serious symptoms.

Ascending to the surface without initiating emergency care can worsen the condition, and ignoring symptoms is unsafe. Waiting to seek medical attention after starting the emergency plan delays critical treatment, which is why the immediate response is to stop the dive and activate the emergency procedure.