What Should I have done?

[steinbil]

That explains why I was confused when an instructor told me the dive computer needs to be on the right arm while the diver controls their BCD while ascending.

Not exactly. Even though you shouldn't have to ADD air to your BC when ascending, you still need to use the left hand for dumping gas from your BC as it expands, either from the corrugated hose/inflator, or from the dump valve, so it is absolutely recommended to have the computer on your right arm. Also, in case you dump too much while ascending, you might need to add a little bit back to remain neutral, especially to level out on your safety stop.

 

[Cthippo]

That explains why I was confused when an instructor told me the dive computer needs to be on the right arm while the diver controls their BCD while ascending.

So anyone who is overdriving their inflator button is a rank novice.

Or has been doing it that way for years.

 

[Learner Diver]

you still need to use the left hand for dumping gas from your BC

What happens if I'm right handed? Can I dump air using the right hand?

 

[steinbil]

What happens if I'm right handed? Can I dump air using the right hand?

It's not related to hand dominance. Inflator and dump valve is normally on the left side of the BC. Crossing the hand over is possible, but not comfortable.

 

[Learner Diver]

Crossing the hand over is possible, but not comfortable.

So no manufacturer makes dump valves on the right side?

 

[Still Kicking]

So no manufacturer makes dump valves on the right side?

Some BCs have rapid dumps on the right but the one you want to use to control your ascent is on the left.

 

[gage_patton]

Outbound's comment needs to be emphasized. You should never begin an ascent by adding air to the BCD with the inflator button. You should have been able to make a lazy kick or two and begin a s l o w ascent to the surface. That last 10 feet may be the most dangerous part of the dive because it is when changes in air volume, both in your BCD and especially your lungs are the greatest. If you inflate your BCD and rocket to the surface, even in only 10 feet of water, you can create a lung overexpansion injury, even a fatal one.

This is particularly easy to do if you are watching your dive computer and holding onto the anchor rope (which has been released from the bottom) while the boat drifting. Your angle will cause you to come to the surface quicker if you are only focusing on a timer or gas consumption and not depth.