PADI Dive Physiology and Health 2

Question 1

What condition occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the tissues and bloodstream upon ascent?

Accepted Answer

Decompression sickness

Answer

Decompression sickness (DCS) results from dissolved nitrogen coming out of solution and forming bubbles in the body when ascent is too rapid.

Question 2

Which organ is most sensitive to the neurological effects of decompression sickness?

Accepted Answer

Spinal cord

Answer

The spinal cord is particularly vulnerable to Type II (neurological) DCS, which can cause paralysis or sensory disturbances.

Question 3

A diver experiences joint pain and fatigue after surfacing. These are classic symptoms of which DCS type?

Accepted Answer

Type I DCS

Answer

Type I DCS involves musculoskeletal pain (the 'bends') and constitutional symptoms like fatigue, without neurological involvement.

Question 4

What is the primary first aid treatment for any suspected decompression sickness?

Accepted Answer

100% oxygen and evacuation to a recompression chamber

Answer

Administering 100% oxygen and arranging transport to a hyperbaric chamber is the standard emergency response for DCS.

Question 5

Repetitive dives increase DCS risk because:

Accepted Answer

Residual nitrogen accumulates from previous dives

Answer

Residual nitrogen from earlier dives adds to nitrogen absorbed on subsequent dives, increasing total tissue nitrogen load.

PADI - Professional Association of Diving Instructors Practice Test