How do you deal with a diver suffering from Decompression Sickness (DCS)?

Administering oxygen and seeking medical assistance immediately is the correct approach for dealing with a diver suffering from Decompression Sickness (DCS). Oxygen is critical in this scenario because it helps to reduce the size of nitrogen bubbles that form in the body tissues and bloodstream during DCS. Breathing pure oxygen increases the amount of oxygen available to tissues, thereby encouraging the body to metabolize and eliminate the nitrogen more effectively.

Additionally, seeking medical assistance is essential because DCS can lead to serious, long-term health issues if not treated promptly and properly in a controlled environment, such as a hyperbaric chamber. Medical professionals are equipped to provide the necessary hyperbaric treatment, which is often the definitive treatment for DCS.

Resting and drinking water may be beneficial for overall recovery but will not address the underlying problem in the case of DCS. Encouraging deeper dives or waiting for symptoms to subside could exacerbate the situation, leading to more severe complications. Prompt action is always crucial in emergencies involving decompression sickness.