What is the significance of using emergency oxygen for divers suffering from DCI?

The significance of using emergency oxygen for divers suffering from decompression illness (DCI) lies in its ability to accelerate nitrogen elimination from the body. When a diver ascends too quickly or experiences a pressure change, nitrogen bubbles can form in the bloodstream and tissues, causing various symptoms of DCI.

Administering pure oxygen increases the partial pressure of oxygen and enhances the rate at which nitrogen is removed from the body through the lungs. This process, known as hyperoxia, helps to reduce the size of the nitrogen bubbles and reduces the symptoms associated with DCI.

In addition, oxygen therapy helps to reduce the risk of further tissue damage caused by hypoxia (lack of oxygen) that may occur during a DCI incident. The therapy is crucial in emergency management to stabilize the diver before receiving hyperbaric chamber treatment, leading to better outcomes for the affected diver.