Course ID: FQUEWU405
Course Name: Nursing Management of the Person with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Credits: 1

About the Authors:
Dr. Randy Scott is a pulmonologist practicing in the Fort Lauderdale area for 20 years. He obtained his medical degree at Boston University School of Medicine and went on to board certification in pulmonary medicine at the University of North Carolina. He is a published author and frequent lecturer. In addition to a busy private practice he is the Co-director of Respiratory Therapy at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale.

Susan Bulfin is an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner specializing in Family/Community Health, currently a faculty member at Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Susan received her Bachelor's degree from the University of Florida and her Master's Degree in Nursing from Emory University. Her experience includes acute care, community health and women's health. She is currently research director for the Caring-Based Health Care Delivery Model, a joint partnership with the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and Boca Raton Community Hospital.

Course Description:
This one contact hour home study course for continuing education will focus on care for the person experiencing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Definition, background, etiology and risk factors associated with ARDS, as well as a review of the diagnostic tools, pulmonary function tests and laboratory tests will be described. Nursing assessment and intervention with patients experiencing respiratory distress is explained in terms of treatment modalities, new therapies, prevention of and discharge planning.

Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the common presenting signs and symptoms associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
• List five conditions associated with ARDS.
• Discuss the pathophysiology of ARDS in terms of the balance of hydrostatic pressure gradients and osmotic forces.
• Identify the most common cause of ARDS.
• Describe the three stages of ARDS.
• Describe the nurse's role in the initial assessment and intervention with the person experiencing respiratory distress.
• Select three nursing management and treatment modalities which improve the patient's respiratory status.