How should a diver react to rapid decompression?

When a diver experiences rapid decompression, the appropriate and safest response is to signal for help and immediately ascend. Rapid decompression can lead to a range of serious physiological effects, including decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." This condition occurs when dissolved gases, primarily nitrogen, come out of solution and form bubbles in the body due to the rapid decrease in pressure.

By signaling for help, the diver brings attention to the situation, which is crucial for safety, especially if they are part of a diving team or in a controlled environment. Following that, ascending is necessary to return to a safer pressure environment where the risk of further physiological complications decreases. It's also crucial to ascend slowly, as this helps to manage any nitrogen that may be coming out of solution.

Descending to a lower depth is not advisable in situations of rapid decompression, as it would likely exacerbate the diver's condition rather than alleviate it. Staying at the surface without taking action could lead to worsening symptoms or failure to obtain needed assistance. Ignoring the situation by continuing to dive disregards the vital nature of bodily responses to decompression issues and can lead to severe health complications. Therefore, signaling for help followed by immediate and careful ascent is the correct response to rapid decompression.