Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of acute respiratory distress syndrome?
Refractory hypoxemia
Pink frothy sputum
Hypoglycemia
Hypercapnia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Refractory hypoxemia:
This is the hallmark of ARDS. It means hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) that does not improve despite increasing oxygen therapy. It results from severe ventilation-perfusion mismatch and alveolar damage.
B. Pink frothy sputum:
This is more characteristic of pulmonary edema due to left-sided heart failure, not specifically ARDS.
C. Hypoglycemia:
Hypoglycemia is not a typical symptom of ARDS. It might occur due to other metabolic issues or sepsis, but it is not diagnostic.
D. Hypercapnia:
While CO₂ retention can occur in late stages, ARDS is primarily marked by oxygenation failure, not ventilatory failure initially.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Distributive shock occurs due to loss of myocardial contractility.":
This describes cardiogenic shock, not distributive shock.
B. "Distributive shock occurs due to increased systemic vascular resistance.":
Distributive shock features decreased vascular resistance due to vasodilation.
C. "Distributive shock occurs due to systemic vasodilation.":
Distributive shock (e.g., septic, neurogenic, anaphylactic) involves widespread vasodilation, leading to maldistribution of blood flow and hypotension.
D. "Distributive shock occurs due to loss of blood volume.":
That describes hypovolemic shock, not distributive shock.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","H"]
Explanation
A. Antidepressants:
Not indicated in the acute management of ARDS.
B. Anticoagulants:
ARDS patients are often immobile and at risk for thromboembolism, so anticoagulants may be used prophylactically.
C. Bronchodilators:
Help relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow, especially in cases where airway resistance contributes to hypoxemia.
D. Antibiotics:
Used when infection is the underlying cause of ARDS (e.g., sepsis, pneumonia).
E. Diuretics:
Can reduce pulmonary edema, although cautiously, since aggressive diuresis may decrease perfusion.
F. Antidiabetic medications:
May be used for glucose control, but not directly indicated for ARDS treatment.
G. Antiemetics:
Not routinely used in ARDS and do not affect respiratory status.
H. Corticosteroids:
Used selectively to reduce inflammation, particularly in late-phase ARDS or COVID-19-associated ARDS.
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