Non-fatal, pressure-related scuba accidents, identification and emergency treatment

Abstract

Part I of this report discusses a variety of non-fatal diving accidents caused by pressure effects and involving non-military activities of a sport or commercial nature. Forty cases are described with symptoms, times of onset of symptoms and times to recompression, along with data on the resolution of the case. In general, civilian divers suffering from embolism or bends accidents show greater residual effects than military divers, probably because of their inexperience, non-standard medical treatment, and time factors in transportation to recompression. Part II describes first aid measures appropriate to the civilian diving accident produced by pressure effects. Proper handling of the injured person involves correct placement in the transport vehicle, all possible speed in movement to the recompression facility, and proper selection of the facility based on the patient's condition and medical advise from experts. These matters are discussed in detail. Part III is a current (April 1971) listing of recompression facilities in the united States including telephone numbers and data on their capabilities as to maximum pressure, availability, and so on.