A nurse is assessing a client who has suspected acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The nurse should identify which of the following is the most common presenting manifestation of ARDS?
Cyanosis.
Diaphoresis.
Somnolence.
Dyspnea.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Cyanosis is a late sign of hypoxemia and not the most common initial manifestation of ARDS. It indicates severe oxygen deprivation but doesn’t typically appear first.
Choice B rationale
Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, can occur with many conditions causing distress, but it’s not specifically the most common presenting symptom of ARDS. It's more of a nonspecific symptom of stress.
Choice C rationale
Somnolence, or drowsiness, might occur in severe respiratory distress when oxygen levels drop significantly, but it’s not the primary or most common presenting manifestation of ARDS.
Choice D rationale
Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is the hallmark of ARDS and the most common presenting symptom. It occurs due to the acute onset of severe hypoxemia caused by the underlying pathophysiology of ARDS.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypertension is not a typical manifestation of sepsis; sepsis usually involves hypotension.
Choice B rationale
Hypoglycemia is not a common manifestation of sepsis; hyperglycemia is more typical.
Choice C rationale
Altered mental status can occur due to the systemic inflammation and infection affecting the brain.
Choice D rationale
An elevated WBC count indicates an immune response to infection, which is a common sign of sepsis.
Choice E rationale
Vomiting can occur due to the body's response to the infection and systemic inflammation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
High-protein and high-carbohydrate foods are beneficial, but they do not directly address the immediate respiratory issues in ARDS.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging oral intake of fluids may not be appropriate as it can contribute to fluid overload and worsen pulmonary edema in ARDS patients.
Choice C rationale
Administering low-flow oxygen might be necessary but isn't the most crucial intervention for ARDS. High-flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation is typically required.
Choice D rationale
Placing the client in a prone position has been shown to improve oxygenation in ARDS by enhancing lung expansion and ventilation-perfusion matching.
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