Question
What is the impact of ARDS on patient mortality and overall outcomes?
Answer
ARDS is associated with a high mortality rate, typically ranging from 30% to 45%, depending on various factors. The highest mortality rates are observed in ICU settings. Factors contributing to the high mortality rate include multi-organ failure and complications such as nosocomial infections and barotrauma. Despite advances in understanding and technology, ARDS remains a significant challenge in critical care, necessitating continued focus on early identification and implementation of lung-protective ventilation strategies to improve outcomes.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and What You Should Know, presented by Tim Gilmore, PhD, RRT, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS, CPFT, AE-C.