Why is it incorrect to think that diving with nitrox completely eliminates the risk of decompression sickness?

Diving with nitrox reduces the risk of decompression sickness (DCS) compared to diving with air due to its higher oxygen content and lower nitrogen levels. This allows divers to have longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals. However, it does not completely eliminate the risk of DCS. Decompression sickness can still occur with any form of diving, including nitrox diving, especially if proper dive planning, ascent rates, and safety stops are not adhered to. The physiology of DCS is such that inert gases, predominantly nitrogen, can still cause bubbles to form in the body tissues, leading to DCS under certain conditions—even when using nitrox.

Divers must remain vigilant about their dive profiles and follow best practices regardless of the gas mixture they are using. The potential for DCS is inherently present in any diving activity, reinforcing the need for divers to continue exercising caution and education, even with the advantages that nitrox provides.