First Aid Guidelines

Abstract

First aid and resuscitation to an injured or drowned diver follow most of all the common resuscitation guidelines. There are however some modifications. This chapter describes the first aid protocol as is developed by the Divers Alert Network (DAN). The guidelines can be considered to be the world’s standard in the field of diving first aid. One modification, compared to standard CPR, is that for the resuscitation of divers, DAN has adopted a secure oxygen delivery system. Also the DAN guidelines include that it is important that before each dive, an Emergency Action Plan is prepared that is specific for the dive spot and circumstances. The dive plan states what to do in case of emergency and includes a list of important contact numbers. In case of a medical problem, the Emergency Action Plan should be directly activated. As soon as possible first aid has to be delivered.