Decompression Sickness
First aid for decompression sickness includes 100% oxygen. The victim needs to be transported to a hyperbaric chamber as soon as possible.
Treating Decompression Sickness
If you suspect you have decompression sickness, you must remain out of the water and seek medical treatment. Do not return to the water to decompress, as you are at risk of unconsciousness and drowning.
Victims of decompression sickness must be treated in a hyperbaric chamber as soon as possible. Administer 100% oxygen to the victim before and during transport. Be prepared to treat for shock and perform CPR if necessary.
During hyperbaric treatment, the diver is placed in a pressurized chamber to compress the nitrogen bubbles. The pressure is then slowly released at a rate that allows the patient to safely offgas the nitrogen. Treatment usually lasts several hours, and multiple treatments may be required for more serious conditions.
Victims of decompression sickness must be treated in a hyperbaric chamber as soon as possible. Administer 100% oxygen to the victim before and during transport. Be prepared to treat for shock and perform CPR if necessary.
During hyperbaric treatment, the diver is placed in a pressurized chamber to compress the nitrogen bubbles. The pressure is then slowly released at a rate that allows the patient to safely offgas the nitrogen. Treatment usually lasts several hours, and multiple treatments may be required for more serious conditions.
