Which of the following patients have the greatest risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)after traumatic injury?
A) A patient who has a closed head injury with a decreased level of consciousness
B) A patient who has a fractured femur and is currently in traction
C) A patient who has received large volumes of fluid and/or blood replacement
D) A patient who has underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During states of hypoperfusion and acidosis,inflammation occurs and vessels become more permeable to fluid and molecules.With aggressive fluid resuscitation,this change in permeability allows the movement of fluid from the intravascular space into the interstitial spaces (third-spacing).As more IV fluids are given to support systemic circulation,fluids continue to migrate into the interstitial space,causing excessive edema and predisposing the patient to additional complications such as abdominal compartment syndrome,ARDS,acute kidney injury,and MODS.A patient with a closed head injury,a patient with a fractured femur stabilized by traction,and a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may develop ARDS,but it would not be related to fluid resuscitation and excessive inflammation associated with traumatic injury.

Which of the Following Patients Have the Greatest Risk of Developing