Questions for the Respiratory System Related

Review Questions for the Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a male client with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Which of the following would the nurse expect to note in the client?

  • A. Pallor
  • B. Low arterial PaO2
  • C. Elevated arterial PaO2
  • D. Decreased respiratory rate
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Low arterial PaO2. In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), there is inadequate oxygen exchange in the lungs, leading to low PaO2 levels. This is due to alveolar damage and decreased lung compliance. Pallor (choice A) is not a specific finding in ARDS. Elevated arterial PaO2 (choice C) is not expected in ARDS as it indicates sufficient oxygenation. Decreased respiratory rate (choice D) is not a typical finding in ARDS, as patients often have an increased respiratory rate to compensate for the poor oxygenation.