Question

How could a medication with pulmonary vasodilating effects worsen ARDS hypoxia?

a) Increases ventilation-perfusion mismatch
b) Improves pulmonary blood flow
c) Enhances alveolar recruitment
d) Reduces intrapulmonary shunting

Answer 1

A medication with pulmonary vasodilating effects could worsen ARDS hypoxia by increasing ventilation-perfusion mismatch.

Step-by-step explanation:

A medication with pulmonary vasodilating effects could worsen ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) hypoxia by increasing ventilation-perfusion mismatch. Ventilation-perfusion mismatch refers to a condition where the amount of air reaching the alveoli (ventilation) does not match the amount of blood reaching the alveoli (perfusion). In ARDS, areas of the lungs may be damaged or blocked, leading to decreased ventilation. By dilating pulmonary blood vessels, the medication may increase blood flow to areas of the lung that aren't receiving enough air, exacerbating the mismatch and worsening hypoxia.