>	1.	Did the instructor require the 62-year-old student to have a
>physical before commencing in-water training?
I believe that the standard PADI medical form was filled out, and I also
believe that the student checked "no" to all of the boxes.  I'll verify and
let you know.
You raise a good point though, should an instructor make everyone over the
age of xx have a physical before allowing them to attend the class?

>	2.	If not, why not?  If so, did the medical evaluation
>indicate any medical contraindications (e.g., low blood pressure or the
>use of medications)?
The student did not indicate on his medical form, the use of any medication.


>	3.	Did the student have to fill out any kind of medical
>history questionnaire before commencing in-water training?
Absolutely.

>	4.	If not, why not?  If so, did he disclose his low blood
>pressure, use of medications, or any other potential contraindication?
No, he did not

>	5.	Had the student ever been in the open water with the
>instructor prior to making this first scuba dive (e.g., to snorkel or
>perform some other kind of check-out)?
Yes.  I did a weight check with him; wetsuit, snorkel, mask, fins and
weights from the back of the boat.

>	6.	In other words, how much did the instructor know, or
>should he have known, concerning the student's physical AND mental ability
>to engage in scuba activities?
The student passed the PADI stamina requirements prior to the dive.  If the
requirements are not stringent enough; it's a separate issue from this
incident.

>	In my opinion, given the uncertainties about the exact cause of
>the student's malady, it would be important to consider these questions
>first.
All good questions.

Joe

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are no absolutes in this world.  Truth is gray, and it is our job to
seek out the truths we wish to follow, remembering never to judge the truths
of others. 
Keep in mind that the difference between right and wrong 
can be infinitely small if you examine the problem from 
enough perspectives... and the ability to consider other 
perspectives is a sign of an advanced soul.

Joe West
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