CHT Decompression Sickness and Gas Embolism Treatment Flashcards

USN Treatment Table 5 is used for:

Answer: Mild DCS (Type I) with complete relief within 10 minutes at 60 fsw

Table 5 is a shorter table appropriate only when symptoms fully resolve quickly at 60 fsw and the presentation is Type I (non-neurological) DCS.

In a multiplace chamber treating DCS, the inside tender breathes air while the patient breathes 100% oxygen at 60 fsw. The tender must be aware of:

Answer: Their own decompression obligation acquired from the air exposure at 2.8 ATA

Air-breathing tenders acquire nitrogen saturation at treatment pressure and must follow appropriate decompression schedules when surfacing.

Recompression therapy for AGE is most effective when initiated:

Answer: As quickly as possible, ideally within hours of symptom onset

Early recompression reduces bubble size and restores tissue perfusion; delays significantly worsen neurological outcomes in AGE.

The 'bend' (limb-bend) in DCS most commonly affects which joint?

Answer: The shoulder and elbow in divers

Shoulder and elbow joint pain (limb bends) are classically described in scuba divers; the specific joint varies by the type of diving activity performed.

What is 'flying DCS' (altitude DCS)?

Answer: DCS triggered by reduced atmospheric pressure during air travel after diving

Flying after diving reduces ambient pressure, decreasing nitrogen solubility and precipitating bubble formation from residual dissolved nitrogen.

Hydration is recommended as an adjunct in DCS treatment primarily because:

Answer: It reduces blood viscosity and supports tissue perfusion impaired by gas bubbles

Adequate hydration combats the hemoconcentration and impaired microcirculation caused by gas bubble-induced vascular injury.