Disease: ARDS

Definition: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, acute onset of severe respiratory distress, cyanosis (hypoxemia) that is refractory to oxygen therapy, abnormalities on chest xray and decreased lung compliance.

Causes: Causes of ARDS include sepsis, bacteremia, trauma with or without pulmonary contusion, fractures, burns, pneumonia, near drowning, aspiration, drug overdose, pancreatitis, fat embolism.

Symptoms: Tachypnea, tachycardia, high Fi02 needed to maintain O2 saturation. Because ARDS often occurs in sepsis, the patient may be febrile or hypothermic. ARDS causes cyanosis, blue color, of the lips and nail beds.

Treatment: Treatment of the underlying cause of the ARDS conditions is essential along with supportive care, noninvasive ventilation or mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes and conservative fluid management. Infection is usually the underlying cause and early administration of antibiotics is highly suggested. Always check if the patient is allergic to antibiotics first.