Nursing 202: Gas Exchange Concepts

These flashcards cover essential concepts related to Gas Exchange, specifically focusing on Acute Respiratory Failure and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome as discussed in Nursing 202.

What is defined as sudden deterioration of gas exchange, being unable to eliminate CO2?

Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF)

What does ARDS stand for?

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

What are the critical ABG values indicating hypoxemia in ARF?

PaO2 ≤ 60 mm Hg or SaO2 < 90%.

What is the hallmark sign of respiratory failure?

Dyspnea (DOE).

Which factors can predispose to Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF)?

Decreased respiratory drive, dysfunction of chest wall/lungs, massive obesity, sleep apnea.

What is the pathophysiology of oxygenation failure?

Results from lack of perfusion to the pulmonary capillary bed.

Name one type of failure that ARF can be further defined as.

Ventilatory failure.

List one diagnostic study used to assess ARF.

ABGs (arterial blood gases).

What is the primary goal of collaborative treatment for ARF?

Identify and correct the underlying cause.

What interventions can help mobilize secretions in patients with ARF?

Effective cough/deep breathing (C/DB), hydration, chest physiotherapy.

Which medication is used to relieve bronchospasm in ARF patients?

Bronchodilators such as Albuterol.

What is the expected outcome for ABGs in patients with ARF?

To return to baseline.

What does refractory hypoxemia mean in the context of ARDS?

Persistent hypoxemia despite giving 100% oxygen.

List one clinical symptom of ARDS.

Rapid onset dyspnea.

What kind of pulmonary edema is associated with ARDS?

Non-cardiac associated bilateral pulmonary edema.

What does V/Q mismatch refer to in ARDS?

Imbalance between ventilation and perfusion in the lungs.

What complication can arise from decreased mobility in ARF patients?

Pneumonia.

What is the recommended positioning for a patient with ARDS?

Semi-Fowler's (15-45 degrees) or Prone position.

Name a potential medication used for stress ulcer prophylaxis in ARDS treatment.

Corticosteroids.

What type of therapy is important to relieve anxiety in ARDS patients?

Relaxation techniques.

What indicates a poor prognosis in ARDS patients?

Presence of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

Why is nutritional therapy essential in ARDS management?

To maintain adequate energy and metabolic needs.

What could influence the mental status of ARDS patients?

Hypoxemia and hypercapnia.

What lab finding might indicate the severity of ARDS?

PaO2 < 60 mm Hg.

What is a primary nursing intervention in the management of ARF?

Monitoring ABGs and O2 saturations.

What does the term 'impaired gas exchange' refer to in a nursing diagnosis?

Inability to maintain adequate oxygenation due to lung dysfunction.

What is the result of mechanical ventilation when treating ARDS?

Improves gas exchange and reduces work of breathing.

How should education about prevention of ARF be directed to clients?

Focusing on early recognition of symptoms and full compliance.

What physiological change occurs in ARDS that leads to decreased lung compliance?

Damage to the alveolar-capillary membrane.

What is a common risk factor that contributes to acute lung injury leading to ARDS?

Sepsis.