UNDERSTANDING ARDS / THE PULSE OXIMETER


What is ARDS?

ARDS (Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome is considered
to be a life threatening condition, which is manifested by
extreme respiratory compromise. 

As fluid fills the air sacs in the lungs, air exchange becomes
 difficult. The oxygen saturation decreases and mechanical
ventilation becomes necessary. ICU care is required.

What causes ARDS?
ARDS may be caused by conditions such as: pneumonia,
  pancreatitis and trauma.


Signs and symptoms can include anxiety, dyspnea, decrease
in oxygen saturation, and tachycardia.


A chest x-ray is a valuable tool in diagnosing ARDS.
Enjoy the video:


Learn more about : ARDS, DVT and PE



Scenario: Nick was admitted to the hospital with a history
of lung cancer. He calls the nurse with complaints of a sudden
onset of shortness of breath and sharp chest pain. 

Nick's oxygen saturation was checked using the pulse oximeter.
It was low and the nurse gave him oxygen via nasal prongs. 
The nurse documents and notifies the doctor of her findings.

What is a Pulse Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a device that is used to detect the oxygen
 saturation in the blood. It is generally applied to the finger
and a patient's oxygen saturation is shown. It is a painless
 and effective test.

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