What should be the immediate action for a diver suspected of having DCS?

The immediate action for a diver suspected of having decompression sickness (DCS) is to administer oxygen and transport the diver to a hyperbaric chamber. Providing supplemental oxygen is crucial because it increases the amount of oxygen available to the tissues, helping to alleviate symptoms by supporting cellular metabolism and promoting nitrogen elimination from the body.

Transporting the diver to a hyperbaric chamber is necessary because hyperbaric treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, which is the most effective way to treat DCS. This treatment helps reduce the size of nitrogen bubbles that form in the bloodstream and tissues, thereby facilitating their resorption and reducing the risk of further injury or complications.

In contrast, waiting for symptoms to improve without immediate intervention could lead to worsening conditions. Monitoring symptoms for an extended period without treatment is not advisable as DCS can escalate quickly, requiring prompt action. Similarly, providing only water and rest does not address the underlying physiological issues caused by DCS and is insufficient as a response. Therefore, administering oxygen and facilitating rapid transport to a hyperbaric facility represents the most effective course of action in such a scenario.