How should a diver's decompression schedule be adjusted after their bottom time?

When considering how a diver's decompression schedule should be adjusted after their bottom time, it's essential to understand the relationship between the duration spent at depth and the necessary decompression procedures. As a diver spends time at depth, they accumulate nitrogen in their tissues, which increases the risk of decompression sickness upon ascent. Therefore, the decompression schedule must reflect this accumulated nitrogen load.

Adding the bottom time to the diver's decompression time effectively allows for a more accurate calculation based on the diving tables or dive computer recommendations. This adjustment is crucial because it ensures that the diver spends enough time at safety stops during ascent to allow for the gradual release of nitrogen from their body. This approach enhances safety by prioritizing the diver's well-being and reducing the chances of experiencing decompression sickness.

In summary, adjusting by adding the bottom time provides a necessary safeguard post-dive, ensuring that the diver adheres to best practices in safely managing their decompression needs.