What can be done to assist a diver experiencing hyperventilation?

In a situation where a diver is experiencing hyperventilation, the most effective intervention is to instruct them to breathe slowly and deeply to help regain control over their breathing pattern. Hyperventilation often leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can result in symptoms such as dizziness, tingling, and lightheadedness. By encouraging the diver to take slow, deep breaths, they can help restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in their system. This technique promotes a slower heart rate and creates a more stable breathing rhythm, allowing the diver to regain composure and focus, which is critical in a diving situation.

The other options would not be beneficial in this scenario. Encouraging more hyperventilation would further exacerbate the problem, and swimming to the surface quickly can be dangerous and may lead to other complications, including lung overexpansion injuries. Providing ice water is neither relevant nor helpful in addressing the physiological effects of hyperventilation. Thus, guiding the diver towards controlled breathing is the key to managing the situation effectively.