What is a key factor in preventing decompression sickness after diving?

Following proper decompression procedures is crucial in preventing decompression sickness after diving because it helps manage the safe ascent from depth and controls the amount of nitrogen the body absorbs under increased pressure.

When divers are underwater, they breathe air containing nitrogen, which gets absorbed into the body's tissues depending on the depth and duration of the dive. If a diver ascends too quickly, the nitrogen that has been absorbed can form bubbles in the bloodstream or tissues, leading to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends."

Proper decompression procedures involve specific stops during ascent to allow the body to off-gas the nitrogen safely. These procedures are based on dive tables or dive computers, which indicate the necessary times and depths for safe ascent. By adhering to these guidelines, divers can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing harmful effects from nitrogen bubbles.

While pacing dives, staying hydrated, and using high-quality equipment are beneficial practices for overall safety and performance in diving, they do not directly address the physiological processes involved in preventing decompression sickness during ascent.