Panicked divers are dangerous. They will climb you, push you under, and rip your regulator out. You learn the "Panic Diver Defense" approach—how to approach from behind, establish buoyancy control for them, and de-escalate the situation.
Most Rescue Diver courses link naturally with the Emergency Oxygen Provider specialty. You learn how to assemble an oxygen unit and administer 100% oxygen to a suspected decompression illness (DCI) victim. The "Panic Curve" and Realism Unlike the sterile environment of Open Water drills, Rescue Diver scenarios are designed to be chaotic. Your instructor will splash your mask, shut off your air, or simulate an unresponsive diver while you are trying to navigate a current. The PADI Rescue Diver Course.pdf
Before Rescue Diver, if you saw a diver kicking wildly on the surface, you might think, "They look fine." After Rescue Diver, you think, "They are drowning. I am going to go help." Panicked divers are dangerous