What is the primary goal of a diver regarding nitrogen management during dives?

The primary goal of a diver regarding nitrogen management during dives is to minimize nitrogen absorption and effectively manage decompression. As divers descend, they are subject to increased pressure, which causes nitrogen from the breathing gas to dissolve in the body’s tissues. Managing this process is crucial to avoid nitrogen narcosis and decompression sickness (DCS).

Effective nitrogen management involves adhering to specific dive profiles that limit the amount of nitrogen absorbed, allowing for safe ascent rates and planned stops at certain depths. This strategy ensures that nitrogen is efficiently eliminated from the body during the ascent, minimizing the risk of DCS, which can be life-threatening.

Maintaining a high depth, increasing dive time unrestricted, or optimizing dives for photography does not prioritize safety concerning nitrogen levels in the body, which is paramount for any diver. Therefore, focusing on minimizing nitrogen absorption aligns with safe diving practices and is critical for diver health and safety.