IDC Dive Physiology & Medical Considerations 2

Question 1

Middle ear squeeze (barotrauma) during descent is most directly caused by:

Accepted Answer

Failure to equalize pressure in the middle ear space

Answer

Overexertion during the dive

Answer

Breathing contaminated air

Answer

Rapid nitrogen absorption

Question 2

A diver who ascends too rapidly may develop arterial gas embolism (AGE). Which symptom would most strongly suggest AGE rather than DCS?

Accepted Answer

Sudden loss of consciousness or neurological symptoms immediately upon surfacing

Answer

Gradual onset of joint pain hours after the dive

Answer

Skin marbling and itching 30 minutes post-dive

Answer

Fatigue and mild headache the following day

Question 3

Which medical condition is an absolute contraindication to recreational scuba diving?

Accepted Answer

Spontaneous pneumothorax (history of)

Answer

Controlled mild asthma

Answer

Well-controlled Type 2 diabetes

Answer

Mild claustrophobia

Question 4

The Valsalva maneuver is used by divers to equalize ear pressure. A potential risk of performing it too forcefully is:

Accepted Answer

Inner ear barotrauma or round window rupture

Answer

Nitrogen narcosis

Answer

Oxygen toxicity

Answer

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Question 5

Carbon monoxide (CO) contamination in a scuba cylinder is most commonly caused by:

Accepted Answer

Improper positioning of the compressor intake near exhaust fumes

Answer

Using the wrong nitrox blend

Answer

Failure to perform a pre-dive equipment check

Answer

Using an aluminum rather than steel cylinder

Question 6

A reverse block most commonly occurs to a diver who:

Accepted Answer

Has congestion during ascent that traps expanding gas in a sinus or ear space

Answer

Descends too quickly without equalizing

Answer

Breathes from a low-pressure cylinder

Answer

Skips the safety stop

Question 7

Hypothermia in divers is primarily caused by:

Accepted Answer

Excessive heat loss from the body to surrounding water

Answer

Breathing cold compressed air

Answer

Nitrogen narcosis side effects

Answer

Overexertion at depth