Which medication could benefit a patient with ARDS and asthma?

• A. Exogenous surfactant
• B. Cromolyn sodium
• C. Tobramycin and albuterol
• D. Spiriva and decadron

Answer: (A)

Exogenous surfactant is a beneficial medication for patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) as it helps to reduce surface tension in the alveoli, improving lung compliance and facilitating gas exchange. In ARDS, the alveoli become filled with fluid or collapse, leading to impaired oxygenation. Administering surfactant can help restore alveolar function by promoting stability and helping to reopen collapsed airways. This mechanism is particularly important in ARDS scenarios where lung function is severely compromised.

While the other options may have roles in respiratory conditions, they do not directly address the underlying pathophysiology of ARDS in the same way that surfactant therapy does. For instance, cromolyn sodium works as a mast cell stabilizer primarily in asthma management, to prevent bronchoconstriction. Tobramycin is an antibiotic that may be indicated for certain infections but does not specifically benefit the lung function impairment seen in ARDS. Spiriva (tiotropium) is a bronchodilator suitable for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management but may not provide direct benefit in acute ARDS settings. Decadron (dexamethasone), a corticosteroid, might help with inflammation but is not a primary treatment