When managing a diver suspected of DCI, what is the correct response?

When managing a diver suspected of decompression illness (DCI), assisting with emergency care is crucial. DCI can present as a range of symptoms resulting from bubbles forming in the body due to changes in pressure during or after a dive. These symptoms can escalate rapidly, making timely intervention essential for the diver's health and safety.

By assisting with emergency care, you are acknowledging the potential severity of the situation and taking the necessary steps to stabilize the diver. This might involve administering oxygen, ensuring the diver is in a position of comfort, and preparing for evacuation to a medical facility equipped to handle DCI. Acting quickly and providing appropriate care can significantly improve the outcome for the diver.

Other options involve actions that could potentially worsen the scenario. For instance, providing minimal care fails to address the serious nature of DCI and could delay necessary medical treatment. Sending the diver back underwater can be extremely dangerous and is not a recommended practice; once symptoms are apparent, the diver should not return to water. Finally, only providing care if training is available undermines the importance of immediate aid. Even if a diver is not a medical professional, basic emergency response skills can be invaluable in the initial management of DCI.