Question 1

A patient brought to an emergency department after a diving accident is receiving inhaled 100% oxygen. What is the goal of this intervention?&#10;A) Enhancing oxygen delivery to ischemic tissues&#10;B) Improving oxygen saturations&#10;C) Preventing the need for recompression therapy&#10;D) Reducing the risk of neurological symptoms

Accepted Answer

The goal of administering 100% oxygen in the context of a diving accident is to enhance oxygen delivery to ischemic tissues by increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the blood, which can help in the treatment of conditions like decompression sickness.

Question 2

A scuba diver reports persistent nosebleeds after a diving trip. What is the treatment for this condition based on this history?&#10;A) A period of bedrest&#10;B) Decongestant medications&#10;C) Recompression therapy&#10;D) Referral to an otolaryngologist

Accepted Answer

Persistent nosebleeds after a diving trip may indicate sinus barotrauma, which is caused by the pressure changes during diving. Decongestant medications can help to alleviate the symptoms by reducing the pressure in the sinuses. However, if the nosebleeds persist or are severe, referral to an otolaryngologist may be necessary. Bedrest and recompression therapy are not indicated for this condition.

Question 3

When evaluating a person who is interested in taking a scuba diving class, the practitioner will screen for which conditions? (Select all that apply.)&#10;A) Chronic sinusitis&#10;B) Diabetes mellitus&#10;C) Peptic ulcer disease&#10;D) Pressure equalizing ear tubes&#10;E) Recurrent urinary tract infections

Accepted Answer

Chronic sinusitis can cause difficulty equalizing pressure in the sinuses, which can affect diving. Diabetes mellitus can cause complications with circulation, which can also affect diving. Pressure equalizing ear tubes may be affected by the pressure changes experienced during a dive. Peptic ulcer disease and recurrent urinary tract infections are not necessarily contraindications for scuba diving.

Deck 201: Diving-Related Maladies