When transporting a dive-injured patient, what elevation limit should be maintained?

Maintaining a maximum elevation limit of 1000 feet above the dive altitude is crucial when transporting a dive-injured patient, particularly one suffering from decompression sickness or other dive-related injuries. This limitation helps to minimize the risk of worsening the patient’s condition by avoiding changes in pressure that could lead to complications.

During ascent from a dive, a diver’s body is supersaturated with nitrogen due to the increased pressure underwater. If a significant elevation is gained too quickly, this sudden pressure change can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream, potentially leading to more severe symptoms or further injury. Restricting elevation to within 1000 feet is designed to ensure that any pressure changes remain gradual enough to allow the nitrogen to be safely off-gassed from the body.

Overall, this elevation guideline is set based on established protocols to ensure safe transport for dive-injured individuals, thereby reducing risks associated with rapid changes in pressure.