What should be done first when assessing for significant symptoms of DCS?

When assessing for significant symptoms of Decompression Sickness (DCS), the first step should be to monitor symptoms and prepare for recompression. This involves carefully observing the diver’s condition, evaluating the severity of their symptoms, and determining the appropriate response. Monitoring is crucial because it allows the responder to identify any progression in the symptoms and to understand the severity of the situation, which will inform the next steps in both treatment and transportation.

Preparing for recompression involves getting ready to provide the necessary care that may include arranging an appropriate recompression chamber once the diver is stabilized. This ensures that the diver receives the correct medical attention in a timely manner, which is essential for the effective treatment of DCS.

Other options, such as transporting to the nearest hospital or initiating in-water recompression, are important actions but they come after the initial assessment and monitoring. Conducting a rapid survey of the dive plan can provide context, but it doesn’t directly address the immediate health concerns of the diver exhibiting DCS symptoms. Thus, monitoring symptoms and preparing for recompression is the most logical first action in responding to suspected DCS.