Nursing Assessment and Management of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

Abstract

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition characterized by rapid onset of severe respiratory failure due to various underlying causes, such as pneumonia, sepsis, or trauma. The nursing assessment for ARDS begins with a thorough evaluation of the patient's history, focusing on the onset and progression of respiratory symptoms, including dyspnea, cyanosis, and cough. Vital signs should be continuously monitored, particularly respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and heart rate. Additionally, nurses should assess lung sounds, use pulse oximetry to determine the effectiveness of oxygenation, and evaluate the patient's work of breathing. Monitoring arterial blood gases (ABGs) is critical in determining the severity of hypoxemia and guiding further interventions. Management of ARDS requires a multidisciplinary approach, with nursing interventions playing a crucial role. The primary goals of management include optimizing oxygenation and ventilation while minimizing potential complications. This may involve the use of supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation with low tidal volume strategies, and careful fluid management to avoid overload. Nurses must be vigilant about positioning the patient in ways that enhance lung expansion, such as the prone position, and advocate for early mobility when feasible. Collaborative efforts with the healthcare team ensure that appropriate pharmacological therapies, such as corticosteroids or neuromuscular blockers, are initiated when indicated. Continuous patient education and monitoring for signs of complications, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia or barotrauma, are essential elements of effective ARDS management.