How should a diver who has surfaced without control and shows symptoms be treated?

The correct approach to treating a diver who has surfaced without control and exhibits symptoms is to compress them immediately to a depth of 60 feet of seawater (fsw). This is critical because rapid ascent can result in decompression sickness (DCS), also known as "the bends," which occurs when dissolved gases come out of solution in bubbles during a rapid change in pressure. By recompressing the diver to 60 fsw, the pressure is increased, allowing the body to reabsorb the nitrogen that may have formed bubbles and thus alleviating the symptoms of DCS.

Administering oxygen at the surface or allowing the diver to rest for a short period might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issue of nitrogen bubbles in the body. Even if the diver is conscious, the immediate need for proper treatment and recompression is paramount, as waiting can lead to further complications or worsening of the diver's condition. Therefore, the most effective treatment to mitigate the risks associated with decompression sickness is to initiate recompression immediately under appropriate supervision and establish a safe diving profile once the diver is stabilized.