Question

The ICU nurse is caring for a client who was admitted with a diagnosis of smoke inhalation. The nurse knows that this client is at increased risk for which of the following?

A. Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
B. Lung cancer.
C. Bronchitis.
D. Tracheobronchitis.

Answer 1

A person with a diagnosis of smoke inhalation is at increased risk for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) due to the acute injury and inflammation in the lungs caused by inhaling harmful substances.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client who was admitted with a diagnosis of smoke inhalation is at increased risk for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Smoke inhalation can result in significant injury to the airway and lung tissues, leading to inflammation and damage to the alveolar-capillary membrane. This type of injury predisposes someone to ARDS, a severe form of respiratory failure characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs. While other conditions like bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, and lung cancer are also associated with smoke and tobacco use, ARDS is an immediate concern typically associated with acute injury from inhalation of harmful substances.