"Beyond Ventilation: A Holistic Nursing Framework for Comprehensive Care of Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)"

Abstract: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) remains one of the most challenging and life-threatening conditions encountered in critical care settings worldwide. Characterized by acute onset hypoxemia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and reduced lung compliance, ARDS is associated with high morbidity, mortality, prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stays, and long-term physical and psychological sequelae among survivors. While advances in medical management and ventilatory strategies have improved survival, the role of comprehensive nursing care remains central to optimizing patient outcomes. Nurses are continuously present at the bedside and are uniquely positioned to deliver holistic, evidence-based interventions that address not only respiratory support but also hemodynamic stability, prevention of complications, psychosocial needs, and rehabilitation. This review article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of comprehensive nursing care for patients with ARDS, integrating current evidence, clinical guidelines, and best nursing practices. Key areas discussed include pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of ARDS, nursing assessment and monitoring, ventilator management from a nursing perspective, supportive and preventive nursing interventions, sedation and pain management, nutritional and psychosocial care, infection prevention, ethical considerations, and post-ICU recovery. By highlighting the multifaceted responsibilities of nurses in ARDS management, this review underscores the indispensable role of nursing care in improving survival, reducing complications, and enhancing quality of life for patients with ARDS.