Pathophysiology
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
ARDS is a sudden, progressive form of acute respiratory failure where the alveolar capillary membrane becomes damaged and more permeable to intravascular fluid.
Phases
- Exudative: Pulmonary edema and atelectasis
- Proliferative: Fibrosis begins
- Fibrotic: Diffuse scarring of the lung
Nursing Focus
- Mechanical ventilation with PEEP
- Prone positioning to improve oxygenation
- Manage sedation and neuromuscular blockade
- Maintain fluid balance to prevent pulmonary edema
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