How to manage adult respiratory distress syndrome.

The key clinical features of adult respiratory distress syndrome are increasing dyspnea, tachypnea, and work of breathing; diffuse pulmonary infiltrations on chest radiographs; severe hypoxemia; and absence of a classic diagnosis. Adequate tissue oxygenation is the cornerstone of therapy. Therapeutic modalities include mechanical ventilation, fluid restriction, diuretics, and cardiotonic and vasopressor agents.