Scuba Diving International (SDI) Computer Nitrox Practice Exam

What may happen if you go too deep or stay too long while diving?

1. You can ascend directly without any risks

2. You may increase the risk of decompression sickness

3. Your dive computer will reset automatically

4. You will have an extended bottom time

The correct answer is: You may increase the risk of decompression sickness

Staying too deep or remaining underwater for an extended period can significantly increase the risk of decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." This condition occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen that has dissolved in the body under pressure to form bubbles, which can lead to various symptoms ranging from joint pain to more severe complications, including neurological damage or even death. During a dive, the body absorbs more nitrogen as you go deeper and as time goes on. If the ascent is not managed properly, the excess nitrogen can come out of solution too rapidly, resulting in the bubbles. Following the principles of safe diving practices, divers should ensure they follow the recommended ascent rates and make safety stops to allow the body to off-gas nitrogen safely. The other choices do not accurately reflect the physiological implications of deep or prolonged dives. Ascending directly without risks is not advisable; dive computers do not reset automatically based on diving depth or duration; and having an extended bottom time without addressing no-decompression limits increases risks rather than providing safety.