Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What is a common cause of pulmonary edema?

1. Pneumonia

2. Chronic heart failure (CHF)

3. Asthma

4. Chronic lung disease

The correct answer is: Chronic heart failure (CHF)

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a common cause of pulmonary edema due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively. When the heart fails to function optimally, pressure builds up in the blood vessels of the lungs. This increased pressure forces fluid into the lung tissue, leading to pulmonary edema. As the fluid accumulates in the alveoli, it interferes with gas exchange, which can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and respiratory distress. Understanding the mechanism behind CHF-related pulmonary edema is crucial. The heart's reduced pumping efficiency leads to systemic congestion and increased pulmonary venous pressure, which ultimately causes fluid from the bloodstream to leak into the lungs. Managing and treating CHF effectively can help prevent pulmonary edema and improve overall patient outcomes.