Nursing 202: Gas Exchange and ARDS

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to Gas Exchange and Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF), particularly focusing on ARDS, its causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and collaborative care approaches.

Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF)

A sudden deterioration of gas exchange, unable to eliminate CO2.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

Acute respiratory failure characterized by refractory hypoxemia and decreased pulmonary compliance.

Pathophysiology

The study of the functional changes that accompany a particular syndrome or disease.

Hypoxemia

Low oxygen levels in the blood, PaO2 ≤ 60 mm Hg.

Hypercapnia

Elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, CO2 > 50 mm Hg.

Acidemia

A condition of increased acidity of the blood, pH < 7.35.

Ventilatory Failure

Failure due to mechanical abnormalities of the lungs or chest wall, or impaired muscle function.

Oxygenation Failure

Failure resulting from lack of perfusion to the pulmonary capillaries or conditions altering gas exchange.

Hypoxemia Symptoms

Symptoms include dyspnea, orthopnea, hypercapnia, and tachypnea.

Diagnostic Studies for ARF

Tests like ABGs, CXR, CBC, cultures, and V/Q scans to diagnose respiratory failure.

Collaborative Treatment for ARF

Identifying and correcting the underlying cause, improving ventilation and oxygenation.

Medication Administration in ARF

Involves bronchodilators, corticosteroids, diuretics, and antibiotics to manage conditions.

Effective Chest Physiotherapy

Techniques to mobilize secretions, including effective cough and deep breathing.

Client Goals for ARF

Goals include adequate oxygenation, ventilation, and avoiding complications.

Cultural Competence

Integrating cultural considerations in patient care and education.

Nutritional Therapy for ARF

Includes enteral and parenteral nutrition to support patients with respiratory failure.

Clinical Symptoms of ARDS

Rapid onset dyspnea, tachycardia, hypoxemia, and change in mental status.

Refractory Hypoxemia

Hypoxemia that persists even when 100% oxygen is administered.

Infiltrates on CXR

X-ray findings in ARDS indicating pulmonary edema or atelectasis.

ARDS Phases

Stages characterized by inflammatory response, atelectasis, and decreased lung compliance.

Potential Complications of ARDS

Includes infection, respiratory failure, and development of pneumonia.

Client Education for ARF

Involves prevention strategies and recognition of signs and symptoms of respiratory failure.

Intubation in ARDS

Placement of an endotracheal tube for mechanical ventilation.

Prone Positioning

Positioning that can improve oxygenation and facilitate secretion mobilization.

Tachypnea

Increased respiratory rate, a hallmark sign of respiratory failure.

Accessory Muscle Use

Indicates respiratory distress when patient uses additional muscles to breathe.

Continuous Pulse Oximetry

Monitoring device that tracks oxygen saturation levels in real-time.

Chest X-ray (CXR)

Diagnostic imaging used to visualize lung conditions, including fluid accumulation.

Bronchodilators

Medications that relax bronchial muscles, improving airflow.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory drugs used to reduce airway inflammation in ARDS.

Diuretics in ARF

Medications used to relieve pulmonary congestion and edema.

Hypercapnia Symptoms

Symptoms may include confusion, headache, and lethargy due to elevated carbon dioxide.

Fluid Volume Deficit

A potential complication related to inadequate fluid intake or loss.

C/DB

Coughing and deep breathing exercises to improve lung function.

Endotracheal Tube (ETT)

Tube placed into the trachea to maintain open airways for ventilation.

Psychosocial Integrity

Assessment of emotional and psychological factors affecting patient care.

Evidence-Based Nursing Practice

Care practices that are based on the best available scientific evidence.

Mechanical Ventilation

A method of providing assisted breathing to patients with severe respiratory failure.

Sepsis

A severe infection that spreads throughout the body, potentially leading to ARDS.

Client Family Education

Engaging family in the care process and teaching them about the patient's condition.

Nutritional Needs in ARF

Assessment of hydration status and adequate caloric intake for recovery.

ABG Analysis

Arterial blood gas analysis to assess respiratory function and acid-base balance.