What is the typical grounding period after Type II DCS before full duty can resume?

What is the typical grounding period after Type II DCS before full duty can resume?

• A. Ground x 72 hours
• B. Ground x 1 week
• C. Ground x 2 months
• D. Ground x 1 month, waiver typically granted

Answer: (D)

Decompression sickness Type II involves the nervous system or inner ear, so the emphasis after treatment is on ensuring complete recovery and minimizing the risk of recurrence during flight. A month-long grounding period gives time for any neurological symptoms to resolve, for full clinical stability to be demonstrated on re-examination, and for any required hyperbaric therapy to be completed if needed. After this period, the flight surgeon typically grants a medical waiver, allowing a return to full duties once there is clear, documented resolution and no deficits, with ongoing monitoring as part of aeromedical oversight. Short grounding periods won’t provide enough time to confirm recovery or rule out lingering issues, while much longer durations aren’t the standard unless persistent problems are present.

Decompression sickness Type II involves the nervous system or inner ear, so the emphasis after treatment is on ensuring complete recovery and minimizing the risk of recurrence during flight. A month-long grounding period gives time for any neurological symptoms to resolve, for full clinical stability to be demonstrated on re-examination, and for any required hyperbaric therapy to be completed if needed. After this period, the flight surgeon typically grants a medical waiver, allowing a return to full duties once there is clear, documented resolution and no deficits, with ongoing monitoring as part of aeromedical oversight. Short grounding periods won’t provide enough time to confirm recovery or rule out lingering issues, while much longer durations aren’t the standard unless persistent problems are present.