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Pulmonary Edema — NCLEX Cheat Sheet

Pink frothy sputum = hallmark
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👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team 🕐 Updated 2026-07-11 🏷️ Physiological Adaptation 🔖 Free to read, print, and share
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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Pulmonary Edema on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!

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Causes

Why it happens
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Signs

What to look for

Do

Nursing actions
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Avoid

Key facts

Quick Tip

Severe dyspnea, orthopnea, and pink frothy sputum are the classic signs.

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