Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.
What is acute respiratory distress syndrome? —
Acute respiratory distress syndrome ("ARDS") is a serious lung condition. It happens when the lungs get inflamed and fluid builds up. A buildup of fluid in the lungs can cause problems because it can keep oxygen from getting into the blood. Then, the organs in the body do not get as much oxygen as they need. This requires treatment in the hospital, usually in the intensive care unit ("ICU").
People who had to stay in the ICU because of ARDS are usually seriously ill. This can be hard on the body. After having ARDS, people often have lung problems and muscle weakness that can last for weeks or even months. They might also have thinking problems, which can happen if the brain doesn't get enough oxygen.
After leaving the ICU, some people can go home. Others need to stay in a "long-term care facility" or other place that provides special medical care.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Take all your medicines as instructed.
●Make sure you know how to use your oxygen equipment, if you went home with it.
●Do your breathing exercises as instructed, if your doctor told you to. These can help strengthen your lungs.
●Avoid smoking and places where other people are smoking. If you are having trouble quitting smoking, your doctor or nurse can help.
●Avoid going outside in very cold or very hot weather. Do not go outside when the air quality is bad.
●Increase physical activity slowly. Moving your body is good for your health, but your muscles might be weak as you recover. Some people need physical therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation ("rehab") to help them recover.
●Talk to your doctor about when to return to work or other activities.
●Protect yourself from infections. Wash your hands often, and stay away from people who are sick. It's also important to get all the vaccines your doctor recommends.
What follow-up care do I need? —
Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to come back for a follow-up appointment. This will involve getting X-rays and other tests to check your lungs.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if you:
●Start having trouble breathing again
●Have signs of infection, such as a fever, chills, or cough
●Feel dizzy or lightheaded
●Have new pain or swelling in your legs
●Have symptoms of anxiety or depression
Patient education: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (The Basics)
Patient education: Sepsis in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Pneumonia in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Going home from the hospital (The Basics)
Patient education: Pulmonary rehabilitation (The Basics)
Patient education: Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) (The Basics)
Patient education: Pneumonia in adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Pneumonia prevention in adults (Beyond the Basics)
