If a diver is on the surface for more than 5 minutes but less than or equal to 7 minutes, what should be done in a recompression chamber?

The correct choice involves increasing the time on oxygen at a specific depth during a recompression treatment. This approach is grounded in the physiological understanding of decompression sickness, specifically how oxygen helps alleviate symptoms and facilitate recovery.

When a diver is at the surface for a period exceeding 5 minutes but not more than 7 minutes, there is a risk that they could have inert gas bubbles forming or expanding in their tissues due to the pressure changes during ascent. Administering oxygen at 50 feet sea water (fsw) is a common treatment in hyperbaric medicine. At this pressure, the increased partial pressure of oxygen can help reduce the size of the inert gas bubbles, enhance tissue perfusion, and expedite nitrogen elimination from the body.

The increase in the oxygen duration from 15 to 30 minutes is a proactive measure to ensure that the diver receives ample treatment to offset any potential risks associated with the surface interval. This allows for better management of any residual inert gas, thus promoting safer outcomes.

In contrast, the other choices would not adequately address the diver's specific situation of being at the surface for a critical time. Resuming the original decompression schedule immediately could risk further complications. Performing a simulated deep dive may not offer the therapeutic benefits needed at