Which of the following diving practices can help prevent decompression sickness?

Following dive computer recommendations is crucial in preventing decompression sickness because diving computers are specifically designed to calculate and manage safe ascent rates and no-decompression limits based on various factors such as depth, time spent at that depth, and the specific gas mixture being used. These devices take the guesswork out of diving, provide real-time data during the dive, and help divers adhere to safe practices by indicating when they need to ascend, how long to stay at safety stops, and ensuring that they do not exceed their limits.

By following these recommendations, divers can effectively manage their ascent and avoid rapid changes in pressure, which can lead to the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body, a primary cause of decompression sickness. Using proper ascent rates and pauses as guided by the dive computer enables the body to safely eliminate excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive.

In contrast, deep dives without planning or using mixed gas without monitoring can greatly increase the risk of decompression sickness due to inadequate preparation and the potential for incorrect gas usage. Ascending quickly is also counterproductive as it disregards safe ascent protocols, which can heighten the chances of developing decompression sickness. Thus, adhering to the guidelines provided by a dive computer is the most effective practice to mitigate the risks associated with decom