ARDS Flashcards
How does ARDS affect lung function in the long term?
ARDS can lead to long-term lung function issues such as: - Reduced lung capacity - Impaired gas exchange - Increased risk of pulmonary complications - Potential for chronic respiratory conditions Survivors may experience decreased exercise tolerance and cognitive impairments.
What signs indicate potential airway compromise in an ARDS patient during assessment?
Signs of potential airway compromise in an ARDS patient include: - Progressive dyspnea - Increased oxygen requirement - Altered consciousness - Tachypnea and tachycardia - Cyanosis - Wheezing or crackles - Signs of respiratory failure (e.g., hypercapnia)
What is the definition of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)?
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung condition characterized by rapid onset of respiratory failure, marked by hypoxemia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and reduced lung compliance. It often follows an injury or illness, leading to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli.
What psychological effects can ARDS survivors experience post-recovery?
ARDS survivors may experience: - Psychological trauma - Cognitive impairment - Post-ICU delirium - Reduced physical endurance - Long-term anxiety or depression
What complications can arise from mechanical ventilation in ARDS patients?
Complications from mechanical ventilation in ARDS patients include: - Barotrauma (pneumothorax) - Ventilator-associated pneumonia - Prolonged ventilator dependence - Malnutrition - Pulmonary hypertension - Long-term cognitive impairment and psychological issues
What initial imaging findings are typically seen in patients with ARDS?
Initial imaging findings in ARDS typically include: - Bilateral alveolar opacities - Atelectasis - Consolidative appearance may worsen with severity over time
What laboratory tests are important for diagnosing and managing ARDS?
Important laboratory tests for diagnosing and managing ARDS include: - Arterial blood gases (ABG) - Complete blood count (CBC) - Electrolytes and renal function tests - Coagulation profile - Chest X-ray or CT scan for imaging - Blood cultures if infection is suspected
What factors contribute to long-term morbidity among survivors of ARDS?
Factors contributing to long-term morbidity among ARDS survivors include: - Psychological trauma - Cognitive impairment - Reduced physical endurance - Decreased lung function - Post-ICU myopathy - ICU psychosis and delirium
What role do diuretics play in the management of ARDS?
Diuretics in ARDS management help reduce pulmonary edema by promoting fluid excretion. This can improve lung function and oxygenation, aiding in respiratory support. However, their use should be carefully monitored to avoid electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.
What criteria must be met for a diagnosis of ARDS according to the Berlin criteria?
To diagnose ARDS according to the Berlin criteria, the following must be met: - Acute onset within 1 week of a known insult - Bilateral opacities on imaging - Impaired oxygenation (PaO2/FiO2
What are the clinical features that suggest a patient may have ARDS?
Clinical features suggesting ARDS include: - Progressive dyspnea - Increased oxygen requirement within 6 hours to 3 days of an event - Respiratory distress signs: altered consciousness, tachypnea, tachycardia, cyanosis, wheezing, or crackles
Why might ECMO be considered in the treatment of ARDS?
ECMO may be considered in ARDS treatment to: - Improve oxygenation in severe cases - Support patients unresponsive to conventional therapies - Reduce ventilator-induced lung injury by allowing lung rest - Provide time for recovery or further interventions
How does type 2 hypercapnic respiratory failure relate to ARDS severity?
Type 2 hypercapnic respiratory failure indicates severe ARDS and potential respiratory arrest. It shows poor gas exchange, often with bilateral opacities on CXR. This condition requires urgent management, including high oxygen support and possible intubation, reflecting the severity of the underlying lung injury.
What are some common differential diagnoses for ARDS?
Common differential diagnoses for ARDS include: - Acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema - Bilateral pneumonia (including COVID-19) - Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage - Pulmonary vasculitis - Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia - Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) - Disseminated malignancy
What is the significance of maintaining euvolemia in ARDS management?
Maintaining euvolemia in ARDS management is crucial because it helps to: - Reduce pulmonary edema - Improve oxygenation - Minimize further lung injury - Optimize hemodynamics Patients should aim to be euvolemic or slightly hypovolemic, often using diuretics for fluid management.
