Acute heart failure and pulmonary edema
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
Sudden cardiac decompensation leading to increased pulmonary capillary pressure and impaired gas exchange.
Acute heart failure and pulmonary edema in plain English
Immediate priority is the reduction of preload and afterload (e.g., Diuretics, Nitroglycerin) to prevent respiratory arrest. The tempting mistake is prioritizing peripheral edema assessment in an unstable client when the life-threatening cue is 'pink, frothy sputum' and respiratory distress.
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