What action should be taken if a diver exhibits symptoms of DCS?

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When a diver exhibits symptoms of decompression sickness (DCS), the appropriate response is to administer oxygen and contact emergency services. DCS may manifest as a range of symptoms, including joint pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, or skin rash, and it occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body tissues due to rapid decompression or improper ascent.

Administering oxygen is crucial because it helps reduce the size of nitrogen bubbles and mitigates hypoxia, which can occur due to decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Oxygen therapy enhances the elimination of nitrogen from the body and is often a vital part of the treatment protocols for DCS. Contacting emergency services is essential to ensure that the affected diver receives appropriate advanced medical care as soon as possible, typically involving hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which is the definitive treatment for DCS.

It is important to act promptly when symptoms are present rather than delay treatment, as time is a critical factor in mitigating the effects and potential complications of DCS.

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