Question

Which intervention will the nurse anticipate when a patient is diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

A. Fluid restriction
B. Diuretic administration
C. Mechanical ventilation
D. Hemodialysis

Answer 1

The nurse will anticipate the use of mechanical ventilation as the primary intervention for a patient with ARDS. Additionally, pulmonary surfactant and supplemental oxygen might be used to manage the condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the nurse will anticipate several interventions to support the patient's respiratory function. An important intervention is mechanical ventilation, which assists in maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation while reducing the work of breathing and the stress on the lungs. Medical advances have allowed better management of ARDS through the use of ventilators for mechanically assisting the breathing process.

Pulmonary surfactant may also be administered to improve lung function. In severe cases, other supportive therapies such as corticosteroids, supplemental oxygen, and assisted ventilation are necessary to help manage ARDS.