Case of the Month #40 ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)

Published 22/06/2023

How would you investigate a patient with ARDS?

ARDS is often a clinical and radiographical diagnosis. Investigation is often based around identifying the precipitant (if unknown), excluding alternative diagnoses and initiating supportive and specific treatment. 

  • Detailed history and physical examination 

  • Radiology – CXR/CT Chest/Abdomen 

  • Specific Laboratory tests e.g. Amylase 

  • Infection Screen – Viral Swab/Blood/Urine/Sputum +/- BAL 

Following intubation and ventilation the patient was sedated and established on mechanical ventilation. The ventilator was set to Pressure Controlled Ventilation: Pins 22, PEEP 8, RR 14, I:E ratio 1:2. Tidal volumes at this stage is 290mls.