Respiratory Failure & ARDS Pathophysiology Course

Flashcards about Respiratory Failure & ARDS Pathophysiology

Respiratory Failure

When the capillaries in the alveoli cannot adequately exchange CO2 for Oxygen, leading to swollen, inflamed alveoli filled with mucus or fluid which blocks gas exchange.

Sepsis

A bloodborne infection that inflames the entire body.

Respiratory inflammation

Pneumonia, inhaled toxin, or even aspiration.

Acute pancreatitis risk for ARDS

Accidental release of active pancreatic enzymes & cytokines into the bloodstream which get sucked into the lungs causing inflammation.

PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure)

Mechanical ventilation

Yell for help

Notify HCP “provider”

H (Holy)

High Fowler's position (HOB up)

O

Oral suctioning & Oxygen

L

Listen to lung sounds.

Refractory Hypoxemia

Low PaO2 despite oxygen delivery

Altered Mental Status

Agitation, Restlessness, and Confusion

Hypoxemia

Low O2

Impaired Gas Exchange

The alveoli become hard due to the capillaries around the Alveoli becoming inflamed & fluid filled, creating a leaky barrier, which eventually fills up the little alveoli sac like a sinking ship! This makes it impossible to get oxygen in & to get CO2 OUT!

ARDS Pathophysiology

HARD Alveoli O2 in CO2 out