If a diver has a neurological symptom after a blow-up from deeper than 60', what should be the course of action?

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In the event that a diver presents neurological symptoms after surfacing from depths greater than 60 feet, the recommended course of action is to recompress in a hyperbaric chamber to a depth of significant relief, not exceeding 165 feet. This approach is grounded in the principles of treating decompression sickness and is particularly relevant for managing neurological symptoms, which could indicate the presence of air bubbles in the bloodstream affecting the central nervous system.

Recompression therapy allows for the reduction of bubble volume through increased pressure, which enhances the ability of the body to safely eliminate inert gases that have formed as a result of rapid pressure changes during the ascent. The depth of 165 feet represents a standard maximum depth for many treatment protocols, effectively facilitating the rapid improvement of symptoms.

Other options, such as rapid ascent to the surface or simply administering oxygen, do not adequately address the potential severity of neurological symptoms and could lead to worsening conditions. Administering oxygen alone may not provide the necessary pressure to resolve the symptoms effectively, and a shallow recompression might not provide sufficient relief from the symptoms, thereby prolonging recovery and increasing risks. Thus, following established protocols for recompression provides the best chance for neurological recovery and mitigates the risk of further complications.

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