An alert and oriented 29-year-old male diver surfaced and called 911 for severe right ear pain. When asked, he specifically denies nausea, dizziness, or pain other than in his ear. Assessment reveals no threats to the airway, breathing, or circulation. The ear shows no obvious injury or discharge. His vital signs are pulse 96 beats/min, respirations 16 breaths/min, blood pressure 146/76 mmHg, and SpO2 97%. What is the proper care for this patient?

A) Transport to a recompression chamber 45 minutes away
B) Provide spine motion restriction precautions prior to transport
C) Transport to the emergency department 15 minutes away
D) Pack gauze in the ear canal to decrease outside pressure changes and reduce pain

C) Transport to the emergency department 15 minutes away