In a situation where ARDS is suspected, what should the nurse expect to find on a chest X-ray?

In cases of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a chest X-ray often reveals extensive pulmonary edema. This is a hallmark finding due to the accumulation of fluid in the alveolar and interstitial spaces of the lungs. It typically presents as bilateral opacities that are often termed "ground-glass" opacities. The presence of pulmonary edema is significant as it indicates that the lungs are unable to maintain adequate gas exchange, which is a critical concern in ARDS.

In contrast to other findings, hyperinflation of the lungs is not characteristic of ARDS; instead, one may encounter decreased lung volumes due to edema. Similarly, while consolidation can appear in various lung pathologies, ARDS is more associated with diffuse alveolar damage rather than localized consolidation. Atelectasis, or lung collapse, may also occur in patients with ARDS but is not the primary radiological finding associated with this condition.

Overall, the key indicator on a chest X-ray for pulmonary edema in ARDS is the diffuse, bilateral infiltrates that lead to compromised respiratory function.