PADI Dive Physiology and Health 4

Question 1

Arterial gas embolism (AGE) is most likely caused by:

Accepted Answer

Holding the breath during ascent, causing lung over-expansion

Answer

Holding the breath during ascent traps expanding air that can rupture alveoli and allow gas bubbles into the arterial circulation.

Question 2

A diver surfaces unconscious immediately after a rapid ascent. The most likely diagnosis is:

Accepted Answer

Arterial gas embolism

Answer

Immediate unconsciousness upon or shortly after surfacing strongly suggests arterial gas embolism from pulmonary barotrauma.

Question 3

Which lung condition makes a diver particularly susceptible to pulmonary barotrauma?

Accepted Answer

Air trapping from asthma or lung cysts

Answer

Conditions that trap air in localized lung areas (e.g., asthma, cysts) prevent equalization of pressure during ascent, risking rupture.

Question 4

Mediastinal emphysema after diving refers to air trapped in the:

Accepted Answer

Mediastinum (chest cavity around the heart)

Answer

Mediastinal emphysema is a type of pulmonary barotrauma where air escapes into the chest cavity surrounding the heart and major vessels.

Question 5

Subcutaneous emphysema from diving barotrauma is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Crackling sensation under the skin of the neck and chest

Answer

Air escaping into subcutaneous tissues causes a distinctive crackling (crepitus) felt when the skin of the neck or chest is touched.

PADI - Professional Association of Diving Instructors Practice Test