Which method is essential for treating serious cases of DCI?

Emergency oxygen administration is essential for treating serious cases of decompression illness (DCI) because it helps to alleviate symptoms and promotes the elimination of nitrogen bubbles from the bloodstream. When a diver ascends too quickly, nitrogen that was previously dissolved in body tissues comes out of solution and forms bubbles, leading to various symptoms associated with DCI.

By administering oxygen, the body can increase the partial pressure of oxygen in the lungs and tissues, which aids in the reabsorption of these nitrogen bubbles. Additionally, higher oxygen levels in the blood can reduce the risk of further complications from DCI, such as neurological damage. Providing emergency oxygen as soon as possible is a critical intervention that is often a first step in the treatment process before more advanced measures, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, can be rendered.

Other options, while they may play a role in overall diver health or in specific situations, do not provide the same immediate and critical response as oxygen administration when it comes to serious cases of DCI. For instance, controlled ventilation might be necessary in specific medical circumstances but is not the first-line treatment for DCI. Similarly, while advanced medical facilities might offer a range of therapies, the emergency setting requires immediate, accessible measures such as oxygen administration. Drinking