A 67-year-old man presents with severe dyspnea, coarse crackles to all lung fields, and anxiety. He has a history of several myocardial infarctions and hypertension. Which of the following interventions will have the MOST immediate and positive effect?

A) Positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation
B) IV or IO access and 20 to 40 mg of furosemide
C) 0.4 mg sublingual nitroglycerin, up to three doses
D) Supplemental oxygen via nonrebreathing mask

Answer: A) Positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation