What is the consequence of impaired judgment while diving?

Impaired judgment while diving primarily leads to an increased risk of making poor decisions. This can manifest in various ways, such as miscalculating dive times, ignoring safety protocols, or failing to assess environmental conditions properly. These poor decisions can jeopardize not only the diver's safety but also the safety of those accompanying them.

When a diver's cognitive functions are compromised—whether by factors such as anxiety, the effects of nitrogen narcosis at depth, or even physical exhaustion—they may struggle to process information accurately. Impaired judgment can lead to overconfidence, resulting in risk-taking behaviors that would typically be avoided in safer conditions.

In contrast, options related to improved buoyancy, increased safety measures, or enhanced visibility are not associated with impaired judgment. In fact, these could reflect a situation where the diver is fully aware and making sound choices. However, when judgment is impaired, the tendency is toward risky behaviors that reduce safety and increase the likelihood of accidents.