Adult respiratory distress syndrome following thoracic trauma

Thoracic trauma is frequently complicated by the development of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Over the past 20 years numerous articles and book chapter have explored the causes and clinical course of the syndrome. There still remains debate, however, concerning the pathophysiology and most effective treatment modalities. It is apparent that trauma activated numerous complex biochemical pathways, such as the complement and arachidonic acid cascades, which probably resulted in neutrophil and macrophage mediated tissue injury. This article examines some of the more recent thoughts about the underlying pathophysiology. It also outlines some of the latest treatment techniques for ARDS, as well as the accompanying nursing therapeutics.