Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a patient with isolated upper extremity injury

Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can occur following multiple long-bone fractures or crush injuries to the lower extremities and pelvis. Confronted with isolated injury to the upper extremity there is no high index of suspicion for the development of ARDS. Hence, an unnecessary delay in diagnosis and treatment may result. Frequently, a change in mental status followed closely by tachypnea are the first indications of ARDS. Immediate intervention with ventilatory support can be life-saving.