Chapter 15 - Respiratory Emergencies

Question 1

Acute Pulmonary Edema

Answer 1

Fluid accumulation in the tissue and air spaces of the lungs. The left side of the heart cannot remove blood from the lung as fast as the right side delivers it. As a result, fluid builds up within the alveoli and in the lung tissue between the alveoli and the pulmonary capillaries.

Question 2

Acute Pulmonary Edema Causes

Answer 2

Generally caused by congestive heart failure. High blood pressure and low cardiac output often trigger this “flash” (sudden) pulmonary edema.