What is the best option for the patient in respiratory failure who continues to deteriorate 30 min after the initiation of noninvasive ventilation?

a. Wait another 30 min and monitor the pa-tient.
b. Begin continuous positive airway pressure.
c. Intubate and begin mechanical ventilation.
d. Ventilate the patient using a bag-valve-mask.

ANS: C
If the patient's vital signs and blood gas values are worsening after 30 min on optimal settings, intubation should be considered.