The nurse caring for a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) would expect to observe which of the following symptoms?

Rationale: A.ARDS is characterized by decreased lung compliance due to stiff, non-compliant lungs from alveolar edema, inflammation, and collapse. Increased FiO₂ does not reverse the stiff lung mechanics. B. Respiratory acidosis is not typically associated with hyperventilation. In early ARDS, patients often hyperventilate, leading to respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory acidosis can occur later if the patient fatigues or cannot maintain adequate ventilation. C. ARDS is associated with decreased alveolar surfactant levels, which contributes to alveolar collapse, impaired gas exchange, and decreased lung compliance. Surfactant loss is a hallmark of the pathophysiology. D. Decreasing PaO₂ despite increased FiO₂ administration reflects refractory hypoxemia, a hallmark of ARDS. This occurs because alveoli are filled with fluid, collapsed, or nonfunctional, preventing oxygen from effectively diffusing into the blood. Even high concentrations of supplemental oxygen cannot fully correct the hypoxemia.