How long should you wait after the first O2 hit before resuming O2 breathing at POI?

The recommended wait time after the first O2 hit before resuming O2 breathing at the Point of Interest (POI) is 15 minutes. This duration is important because it allows for the body to effectively eliminate any excess nitrogen that may have accumulated during the initial oxygen exposure. Resuming oxygen too quickly could lead to oxygen toxicity or hinder the body’s ability to stabilize its nitrogen levels, which is crucial for safe diving and for avoiding conditions such as decompression sickness.

While the other time frames could potentially seem reasonable, they do not align with the established guidelines for safely managing oxygen exposure during diving practices. Waiting for 15 minutes ensures a balanced approach, promoting the health and safety of the diver.