PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary treatment for a nonbreathing patient experiencing DCS?

1. Provide warm compresses

2. Start rescue breaths/CPR

3. Administer oral hydration

4. Move the patient to a warm environment

The correct answer is: Start rescue breaths/CPR

The primary treatment for a nonbreathing patient experiencing decompression sickness (DCS) is to start rescue breaths or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). In cases where a patient is not breathing, it is critical to establish an effective airway and ensure adequate ventilation. Rapidly administering rescue breaths helps to provide oxygen to the body's tissues, which is vital for reducing the effects of DCS. While other options may have their own importance in a comprehensive treatment plan—like providing warmth to the patient or maintaining hydration—none of them can substitute for the urgent need to restore breathing and circulation. DCS may cause severe physiological disturbances, and a nonbreathing patient is at immediate risk of further harm or death, making the initiation of rescue operations a top priority.