Pulmonary Edema Flashcards
What are the hallmark respiratory symptoms of pulmonary edema?
Severe dyspnea, orthopnea, tachypnea, and use of accessory muscles for breathing.
What type of sputum is seen in pulmonary edema?
Pink, frothy, blood-tinged sputum due to fluid accumulation in the alveoli.
What cardiovascular signs might be present?
Tachycardia, S3 heart sound (gallop), hypertension (early), and hypotension (late).
How does severe pulmonary edema present?
Extreme anxiety, diaphoresis, pallor, cyanosis, and cold/clammy skin.
What is the most common cause of pulmonary edema?
Left-sided heart failure (HF) leading to increased pulmonary capillary pressure.
What lung sounds are heard in pulmonary edema?
Fine or coarse crackles throughout the lung fields due to fluid accumulation
What position may patients assume to relieve dyspnea?
The patient often sits upright or in the “tripod” position to ease breathing.
What imaging study confirms pulmonary edema?
A chest x-ray (CXR) showing bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and increased vascular markings.
What lab tests help evaluate the severity of pulmonary edema?
BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) to assess for heart failure
ABGs (arterial blood gases) showing hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis
Serum electrolytes to check for imbalances related to diuretics and fluid shifts
How does echocardiography help in pulmonary edema?
It evaluates heart function, EF (ejection fraction), and signs of left ventricular dysfunction.
What is the priority intervention in pulmonary edema?
Oxygen therapy to maintain SpO₂ > 90% (via high-flow oxygen, BiPAP, or mechanical ventilation if needed).
What non-pharmacological interventions help with pulmonary edema?
Position the patient in High-Fowler’s, monitor vital signs frequently, and ensure continuous ECG monitoring.
What medications are commonly used to manage pulmonary edema?
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) to reduce fluid overload
Nitroglycerin to decrease preload and afterload
Morphine (small doses) to reduce dyspnea and anxiety
Dobutamine to improve cardiac output if HF is present
What lifestyle modifications can help prevent pulmonary edema?
Low-sodium diet to prevent fluid retention
Daily weights to monitor fluid balance
Medication adherence to manage HF and prevent exacerbations
When should patients seek immediate medical attention?
Sudden worsening of dyspnea, pink frothy sputum, chest pain, or severe weakness.
