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Treatment of adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) includes:
a. administration of oxygen via a reservoir mask
b. clear liquid diet
c. supportive care until the underlying cause is found and
treated
d. administration of surfactant therapy
What is (d) supportive care until the underlying cause is found and treated. This includes mechanical ventilator support, bronchial suctioning, and total parenteral nutrition. The client is placed in intensive care, and nursing care is focused on improving gas exchange, monitoring vital signs and respiratory status, and relieving anxiety.