Scuba Diving International (SDI) Computer Nitrox Practice Exam

What is the primary treatment method for decompression sickness at a medical facility?

1. Administration of painkillers

2. Recompression in a hyperbaric chamber

3. Use of oxygen masks only

4. Immediate descent in water

The correct answer is: Recompression in a hyperbaric chamber

The primary treatment method for decompression sickness, often referred to as "the bends," is recompression in a hyperbaric chamber. This treatment involves placing the affected diver in an environment with increased atmospheric pressure, which facilitates the removal of nitrogen bubbles from the bloodstream and tissues. The hyperbaric chamber allows for controlled delivery of pure oxygen at elevated pressures, which not only helps in reducing the size of the gas bubbles but also enhances oxygen delivery to tissues that may have suffered from reduced oxygen levels due to the condition. This method effectively mitigates the symptoms and long-term effects of decompression sickness and promotes healing. Other treatments, while they may alleviate some pain or assist in symptom management, do not address the underlying issue of nitrogen bubbles in the body as comprehensively as recompression therapy does.