What is the immediate first aid step for a diver suspected of having a pneumothorax?

• A. Rule out AGE or DCS
• B. Place diver on 100% O2
• C. Immediately take the patient to the hospital
• D. If the diver has AGE/DCS and a pneumothorax, take patient to a recompression chamber

Answer: (B)

Providing 100% oxygen right away is the immediate first aid step because it helps with gas management in a pneumothorax and supports tissue oxygenation while you arrange definitive care. Supplying pure oxygen increases the rate at which nitrogen and other inert gases are washed out of the body, which can help the air in the pleural space reabsorb more quickly and reduces the risk of the condition worsening. It also improves oxygen delivery to tissues that may be hypoxic from impaired chest mechanics or ventilation.

While considering other injuries like AGE or DCS is important, those conditions are not the most urgent action to take before transport, and definitive treatment for a pneumothorax requires medical assessment and monitoring. Recompression therapy is a treatment for DCS, not an immediate first aid step for a pneumothorax, and should be arranged in a facility capable of hyperbaric care.