Flashcard 19 - Respiratory Emergencies Flashcard Set for the CEN

There is no single definitive test for ARDS.

The diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requires a combination of clinical criteria and imaging to differentiate it from other respiratory conditions. ARDS can be diagnosed by ruling out other conditions and confirming acute onset, bilateral lung infiltrates on chest X-ray or CT and a PaO2/FiO2 ratio of less than 200 mm Hg.