A nurse is caring for a client with acute pulmonary edema. Which mechanism is responsible for the accumulation of fluid in the alveoli and interstitial spaces in this condition?
Increased hydrostatic pressure in pulmonary capillaries
Decreased capillary permeability in the lungs
Enhanced lymphatic drainage from the lungs
Elevated colloid osmotic pressure in pulmonary vessels
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct. Increased hydrostatic pressure in pulmonary capillaries, often due to left ventricular failure, leads to the filtration of fluid from the capillaries into the alveoli and interstitial spaces, causing pulmonary edema.
B) Incorrect. Decreased capillary permeability is not typically a primary factor in the development of pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Enhanced lymphatic drainage from the lungs is not a primary mechanism responsible for the accumulation of fluid in pulmonary edema.
D) Incorrect. Elevated colloid osmotic pressure in pulmonary vessels would oppose fluid accumulation in the alveoli and is not a primary cause 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 B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A decreased respiratory rate is not typically associated with pulmonary edema, which often leads to increased respiratory effort.
B) Correct. Inspiratory crackles in the lung bases are indicative of fluid accumulation in the alveoli and are a common physical finding in pulmonary edema.
C) Incorrect. Increased breath sounds are not typically associated with pulmonary edema; instead, crackles or wheezing may be heard.
D) Incorrect. Diminished heart sounds are not a characteristic finding in pulmonary edema.
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