ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME: RISK FACTORS

Course overview

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS; also known as wet lung, shock lung, stiff lung, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and acute lung injury) is a life-threatening condition clinically defined by a rapid onset and progressive respiratory distress accompanied by hypoxemia (i.e., abnormally low oxygen levels in arterial blood) and bilateral pulmonary infiltrates (i.e., interstitial and alveolar fluid buildup in both lungs). This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of ARDS, its risk factors, clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.