In which situation is in-water recompression considered an option?

In-water recompression is typically considered as a last resort treatment for divers experiencing significant symptoms of decompression sickness (DCS) when no immediate medical facility is available. This technique involves placing the affected diver back under pressure in the water to potentially alleviate symptoms until adequate medical care is accessible. It is important to use it cautiously, as it may not provide the optimal treatment outcomes that a hyperbaric chamber would offer.

This option is consistent with established protocols that emphasize safety and the importance of reaching a medical facility with proper equipment as soon as possible. Significant symptoms indicate a more severe case of DCS, and if other options are not viable, in-water recompression may provide temporary relief or stabilization.

In contrast, the other scenarios do not align with best practices for treating DCS; mild symptoms typically do not warrant such drastic measures, and patients exhibiting mild symptoms should be monitored and treated in a controlled environment. If a patient is stable but reachable within an hour, it's preferable to transport them directly to a hyperbaric facility, where they can receive appropriate care. Lastly, any delay in treatment, especially for moderate to severe symptoms, is unacceptable as it can lead to worse outcomes, making it crucial to act decisively rather than resorting to in