Which client has the greatest risk for developing adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)? A. A 34-year old client with diabetes mellitus B. A 65-year old with Addison's disease C. A 22-year old with ulcerative colitis D. A 40-year old with acute pancreatitis

Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung condition that causes breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen supply to the body. It is caused by widespread inflammation and damage to the small air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. Factors that increase the risk of developing ARDS include infection, trauma, sepsis, and inflammation.

A. A 34-year old client with diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus affects blood sugar regulation in the body and can cause complications such as kidney damage and impaired wound healing. However, it is not a direct risk factor for ARDS. B. A 65-year old with Addison's disease: Addison's disease is a hormonal disorder involving insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone. This condition can cause weakness, fatigue, and low blood pressure, but it is not a direct risk factor for ARDS. C. A 22-year old with ulcerative colitis: Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease causing inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Although inflammation is a factor contributing to ARDS, this condition primarily affects the gastrointestinal system and is not a direct risk factor for ARDS. D. A 40-year old with acute pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can lead to complications like infection, sepsis, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), all of which are known risk factors for ARDS.

Based on the analysis of each client's condition, the client with the greatest risk for developing adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the 40-year-old with acute pancreatitis (option D), as this condition can directly lead to complications such as infection, sepsis, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), which are known risk factors for ARDS.