When is it appropriate for rescuers to administer oxygen to a diver?

Administering oxygen to a diver is particularly important when they show signs of decompression sickness or air embolism because these conditions can lead to serious complications, including life-threatening situations. Both decompression sickness and air embolism are related to problems that occur due to changes in pressure during diving and can significantly affect a diver's physiological state. Providing supplemental oxygen can help in reducing bubble formation in the bloodstream, improve oxygen delivery to tissues, and generally stabilize the diver’s condition while awaiting professional medical assistance.

This practice is grounded in the emergency response principles for dive-related injuries, where quick intervention can alter the outcome for the diver positively. The use of oxygen in these scenarios is not only beneficial but often critical in managing the diver's health effectively until further treatment is available.