According to NAUI, how is a repetitive dive defined?

A repetitive dive is defined as more than one dive within 24 hours. This definition is important in scuba diving because it emphasizes the need for careful planning and understanding of nitrogen absorption, which affects the risk of decompression sickness. When divers engage in multiple dives over the course of a day, they accumulate nitrogen in their bodies, which requires thoughtful consideration of surface intervals and dive profiles to manage risks appropriately.

The significance of the 24-hour period stems from the fact that nitrogen loading in the body can persist for an extended time after the first dive, making it crucial for divers to recognize any subsequent dives as potentially repetitive. This guideline helps divers adhere to safe diving practices, including the use of dive tables or dive computers to track nitrogen levels and ensure safe ascent rates and surface intervals. Understanding this definition allows divers to maintain safety standards, enjoy their dives, and minimize the risk of complications related to nitrogen retention.