Posted by Jeff in landlocked #$%^*+ arizona on August 20, 2004 at 09:30:15:
In Reply to: Sorry posted by Elaine on August 19, 2004 at 22:47:18:
Hi Elaine et al:
As a surgical RN w/ over 25 yrs experience (altho, not an anesthesia provider), and a "new" diver (with only 60 dives, and a recent EAN cert), I'm a "little" familiar w/ use of O2.
Is there consensus from the scientific/medical community (dive-specific, of course) about use of EAN for increased, or decreased safety ? !
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I recently applied for a life insurance policy, & when I stated I participated in scuba diving, an immediate followup question from them was "do you ever use any gas other than air?"
If they come back with an increased premium due to this (a difference other than "just air"), I am looking for arguments, either way, as to why this might change their mortality rates.
I know that oftimes underwriters have their own "feelings" about things (I once worked in the insurance industry), & wonder if they have any scientific data to back this specific matter up, or if it's just like some of us on this board who have opinions about these matters.....
Is there a consensus? or will it be a never-ending debate? (Elaine, you & I know how opinions are in the anesthesia & surgical field !!)
Thanks.....
Jeff