Rescue Skills & Emergency Response Flashcards

In PADI's Rescue Diver training, what is the first priority when approaching an unresponsive diver on the surface?

Answer: Establish positive buoyancy for both rescuer and victim

Establishing positive buoyancy for both the rescuer and victim is the first priority to prevent both from sinking while the situation is assessed.

What is the PADI-recommended rate for rescue breathing while towing an unresponsive, non-breathing diver to shore?

Answer: One breath every 5 seconds

PADI recommends one rescue breath every 5 seconds while towing a non-breathing diver, maintaining a rate of approximately 10–12 breaths per minute.

According to PADI Rescue Diver standards, what should a rescue diver do if a panicking diver grabs them aggressively?

Answer: Submerge to escape the grip, then re-approach from behind

If grabbed aggressively, the rescue diver should submerge to escape the panicking diver's grip, then re-approach from behind where they have control.

As a PADI instructor, you witness a student diver go limp underwater at 6 metres / 20 feet during a confined water session. What is your immediate action?

Answer: Immediately ascend to the surface with the diver, establish buoyancy, and call for help

Immediately ascend with the unresponsive diver, establish buoyancy on the surface, and initiate emergency procedures including calling EMS.

What type of oxygen delivery system should PADI dive operators have available for diving emergencies?

Answer: Both demand valve and continuous flow systems

PADI recommends having both demand valve and continuous flow oxygen delivery systems available, as different patient conditions require different delivery methods.

When should a PADI dive instructor activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in response to a dive emergency?

Answer: As soon as possible whenever a diving emergency is suspected

EMS should be activated as soon as possible whenever a diving emergency is suspected — early activation improves outcomes.