RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN Related

Review RN ATI Adult Medsurg Proctored Exam 2023 With NGN related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of this syndrome?

  • A. Bronchoconstriction
  • B. Refractory hypoxemia
  • C. Pulmonary hypertension
  • D. Pleural effusion
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Refractory hypoxemia.

Rationale: ARDS is characterized by severe hypoxemia that persists despite high levels of oxygen therapy, known as refractory hypoxemia. This occurs due to ventilation-perfusion mismatch and impaired gas exchange in the alveoli. The other choices are not typical manifestations of ARDS:
A: Bronchoconstriction is more commonly seen in asthma or COPD.
C: Pulmonary hypertension may develop as a complication of ARDS but is not a direct manifestation.
D: Pleural effusion may occur in ARDS but is not a defining characteristic.