ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME (ARDS)

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Is a clinical syndrome characterized by a sudden and progressive pulmonary edema, increasing bilateral infiltrates on x-ray, hypoxemia refractory to oxygen supplementation and reduced lung compliance.

ARDS signs and symptoms

Rapid breathing Feeling like you can't get enough air in your lungs Low oxygen levels in your blood, which can lead to organ failure and symptoms such as rapid heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, confusion, and extreme tiredness

ARDS signs and symptoms

shortness of breath tachypnea leading to hypoxia and providing less oxygen to the brain, occasionally causing confusion

Etiologic Factors Related to ARDS

Aspiration (gastric secretions, drowning, hydrocarbons) Drug ingestion and overdose Hematologic disorders (disseminated intravascular coagulopathy [DIC], massive transfusions, cardiopulmonary by pass)

Etiologic Factors Related to ARDS

Prolonged inhalation of high concentration of oxygen, smoke, or corrosive substances Localized infection (bacterial, fungal, viral pneumonia) Metabolic disorders (pancreatitis, uremia)

Etiologic Factors Related to ARDS

Shock (any cause) Trauma (pulmonary contusion, multiple fractures, head injury) Major surgery Fat or air embolism Systemic sepsis

Diagnosis of ARDS
Arterial blood gas Blood tests, including CBC and blood chemistries Bronchoscopy Chest x-ray

Diagnosis of ARDS
Sputum cultures and analysis BNP Echocardiography Pulmonary artery catheterization

Medical Management for ARDS

Mechanical ventilation Airway pressure release ventilation Positive end-expiratory pressure Prone position

Medical Management for ARDS

Fluid management Corticosteroids Nitric oxide Surfactant therapy

Nursing Management for ARDS

Monitor patient regularly Position the client Explain all procedures to the patient Advice the patient to have an adequate rest