Decompression illness — DIPIMC MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: A — Give high-concentration oxygen and obtain urgent diving-medicine advice
The best answer is “Give high-concentration oxygen and obtain urgent diving-medicine advice”. Neurological, musculoskeletal and respiratory symptoms after ascent indicate decompression illness. Give the highest feasible oxygen concentration, support ABCs, keep the patient appropriately positioned and hydrated, and contact a diving-medicine or hyperbaric service urgently for recompression planning. Further diving and reduced ambient pressure during high-altitude transfer can worsen bubble expansion; analgesia alone does not treat the underlying process.
Reference: NHS England, Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for decompression illness: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/hbot-decompression-illness-gas-embolism-all-ages/