What is the first step in treating decompression sickness?

Gathering a good patient history is critical as the first step in treating decompression sickness. Understanding the patient's recent diving activities, depth and duration of the dive, previous incidents of decompression sickness, and overall medical history allows healthcare providers to assess the situation accurately and make informed decisions regarding treatment. This information guides the clinical team in determining the severity of the condition, any underlying medical issues that may influence treatment, and the most effective course of action.

In emergency medical scenarios, particularly with conditions like decompression sickness, swift and accurate diagnosis is paramount. The data collected during the history-taking phase informs potential immediate interventions and helps to rule out other causes of symptoms presented by the patient. Once a thorough history is established, clinicians can then proceed with necessary interventions such as surface decompression or other treatment modalities based on the specific circumstances of the case.