Emergency & Rescue Procedures Flashcards

Which symptom is MOST associated with arterial gas embolism (AGE) in a diver?

Answer: Sudden loss of consciousness or neurological symptoms at or near the surface

AGE typically presents with sudden, severe neurological symptoms such as unconsciousness or stroke-like signs occurring at or immediately after surfacing.

What is the recommended position for transporting a diver suspected of decompression illness (DCI)?

Answer: Lying flat (supine) and kept still

Injured divers with DCI should be kept lying flat to avoid bubble migration and kept still to minimize exertion.

Why is 100% oxygen administered to a suspected decompression illness victim?

Answer: It reduces nitrogen bubble size by increasing the diffusion gradient

Breathing 100% oxygen creates a large gradient that accelerates the off-gassing of nitrogen, helping to shrink bubbles causing DCI.

During a rescue, you notice a diver floating face-down and unresponsive. After rolling them face-up, what is your FIRST assessment?

Answer: Check for breathing

After rolling the diver face-up and opening the airway, immediately check for breathing as the first assessment step.

What does the acronym STOP represent in diver stress management?

Answer: Stop, Think, Orient, Plan

STOP (Stop, Think, Orient, Plan) is a cognitive tool divers use to interrupt panic and make rational decisions underwater.

A diver becomes unresponsive underwater while you are with them. What should you do FIRST?

Answer: Establish buoyancy and ascend with them

The immediate priority is to establish positive buoyancy for both divers and bring the unresponsive diver to the surface as quickly as safely possible.

Which condition in a rescuer makes approaching a panicked diver especially dangerous?

Answer: Rescuer is directly in front of the panicked diver within reach

A panicked diver will instinctively grab and climb on anyone within reach, potentially pushing the rescuer underwater.