What should divers do if they exceed their no-decompression limits while diving with Nitrox?

When divers exceed their no-decompression limits while diving with Nitrox, the proper response is to execute a controlled ascent and perform safety stops. This approach is crucial because it minimizes the risk of decompression sickness, which can occur when nitrogen absorbed by the body at depth forms bubbles as a diver ascends too rapidly to the surface.

Conducting a controlled ascent allows divers to gradually reduce pressure on their bodies, encouraging excess nitrogen to safely off-gas. Performing safety stops at various depths during ascent gives more time for the body to expel nitrogen, further decreasing the likelihood of developing decompression-related issues.

In contrast, ascending immediately to the surface disregards safe diving practices and significantly increases the risk of decompression sickness. Ignoring the situation altogether simply because one feels fine can lead to serious, even fatal consequences, as symptoms of decompression sickness may not manifest immediately. Continuing the dive for a longer time after exceeding no-decompression limits exposes divers to unnecessary hazards and compounds the potential for injury. Therefore, executing a controlled ascent and performing safety stops is the most responsible and safety-conscious course of action.