Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

1. Restore oxygenation

2. Restore blood pressure

3. Restore temperature regulation

4. Restore normal respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Restore oxygenation

The primary goal in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is to restore oxygenation. ARDS is characterized by severe inflammation in the lungs, leading to impaired gas exchange and significant hypoxemia. The focus of treatment is to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood to support vital organ function while addressing the underlying causes of the syndrome. Restoring oxygenation typically involves the use of supplemental oxygen, and in more severe cases, mechanical ventilation strategies may be employed, such as low tidal volume ventilation, to improve lung function and gas exchange without causing further lung injury. While blood pressure and temperature regulation are important in the overall management of critical patients, they are not the primary consideration specific to ARDS treatment. Likewise, although monitoring and potentially correcting respiratory rate may be part of patient care, the urgent and foremost objective is to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues, making it the central focus of ARDS management.