Which of the following is a critical aspect to monitor in patients with ARDS?

Monitoring plateau pressure in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is critical because it provides essential information about the pressure required to inflate the lungs and can indicate the degree of lung compliance. In ARDS, the lungs become stiff due to inflammation and fluid accumulation, increasing the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury if high airway pressures are used for ventilation.

By assessing plateau pressure, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about ventilatory strategies, including adjusting tidal volumes and respiratory rates to minimize further lung injury. This monitoring helps ensure that mechanical ventilation is delivered safely and effectively, maintaining adequate oxygenation while preventing complications associated with high pressures in the airways.

Fluid intake, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate are all important parameters to monitor in patients with ARDS as well. However, monitoring plateau pressure specifically gives insights into mechanical ventilation management and the protective strategies needed for the compromised lung function in ARDS patients.