A nurse is explaining the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema to a group of nursing students. Which physiological mechanism underlies the development of pulmonary edema?
Increased lung compliance
Impaired alveolar fluid clearance
Constricted pulmonary blood vessels
Enhanced left ventricular contractility
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect. Increased lung compliance would not contribute to pulmonary edema; in fact, it might reduce the risk of fluid accumulation in the lungs.
B) Correct. Impaired alveolar fluid clearance, often due to altered pulmonary capillary permeability, is a key factor in the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Constricted pulmonary blood vessels (vasoconstriction) would reduce blood flow to the lungs and are not a primary factor in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Enhanced left ventricular contractility, while beneficial for cardiac function, is not directly related to the development of pulmonary edema.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While a complete blood count (CBC) may provide some information, it is not the primary diagnostic test for pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be used to evaluate cardiac function but does not directly assess pulmonary edema.
C) Correct. A chest X-ray is a key diagnostic tool for assessing the presence, severity, and underlying causes of pulmonary edema by visualizing lung and heart structures.
D) Incorrect. Urinalysis is not a primary diagnostic test for pulmonary edema; it is used to assess kidney function and screen for urinary tract infections.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct. Pulmonary edema can lead to impaired gas exchange, resulting in respiratory acidosis, characterized by a decreased pH on ABG analysis.
B) Incorrect. Pulmonary edema typically leads to decreased oxygenation, so an elevated PaO2 would not be consistent with this condition.
C) Incorrect. A decreased PaCO2 is more commonly associated with respiratory alkalosis and is not a primary finding in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Increased bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels are more indicative of metabolic alkalosis and are not typically associated with pulmonary edema.
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