A nurse is collecting data for a client who has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Impaired carbon dioxide elimination due to shunting
Decreased pulmonary arterial pressure due to ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatch
Hypoxemia due to dead space
Decreased pulmonary compliance due to stiffness
The Correct Answer is D
A. ARDS is characterized by severe hypoxemia due to shunting, but it typically impairs oxygenation rather than carbon dioxide elimination. The primary issue is the inability to oxygenate blood, not the elimination of carbon dioxide.
B. In ARDS, pulmonary arterial pressure often increases due to pulmonary hypertension caused by widespread inflammation and hypoxemia, not decreased pressure. V/Q mismatch contributes to hypoxemia but does not directly cause decreased pulmonary arterial pressure.
C. While hypoxemia is a hallmark of ARDS, it is primarily due to shunting (where blood passes through unventilated areas of the lung) rather than dead space, which is more associated with conditions like pulmonary embolism.
D. ARDS involves decreased pulmonary compliance due to the stiffness of the lungs, which results from diffuse alveolar damage and the formation of hyaline membranes. This stiffness makes it difficult for the lungs to expand, leading to reduced oxygenation and severe hypoxemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "No, you should wait for lab confirmation because taking antivirals for a nonviral infection can increase side effects.": While unnecessary use of antivirals can lead to side effects, prompt treatment in high-risk individuals (such as those with asthma) is crucial to mitigate complications, making this response less appropriate.
B. "No, you should wait for lab confirmation before beginning antiviral treatment, to prevent resistant viruses.": Delaying treatment in high-risk populations is not recommended as antivirals are most effective early in the course of the illness. This statement does not consider the urgency of treating influenza in vulnerable clients.
C. "Yes, antiviral treatment will ensure that you are less contagious and do not spread influenza to others.": While antivirals can reduce viral shedding, this response overlooks the critical importance of early treatment in reducing the severity of the illness and preventing complications.
D. "Yes, antiviral treatments are most effective when they are started within 48 hours of symptom onset.": Antivirals are most effective when initiated within 48 hours of the onset of influenza symptoms, especially in individuals with underlying conditions like asthma. Starting treatment early can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, making this the most appropriate response.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is more commonly associated with hyperventilation and is not directly linked to the physiological effects of a tension pneumothorax, where the primary concern is intrathoracic pressure changes.
B. Increased venous return: In tension pneumothorax, intrathoracic pressure increases significantly, compressing the great vessels and the heart, leading to decreased venous return, not an increase.
C. Decreased cardiac output: Tension pneumothorax causes a rise in intrathoracic pressure, which compresses the heart and great vessels, leading to decreased venous return and, consequently, reduced cardiac output. This is a critical finding and requires immediate intervention.
D. Dilated ventricles: Ventricular dilation is generally associated with chronic heart conditions, not acute issues like tension pneumothorax, where decreased filling pressures are more of a concern than dilation.
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