A patient with an unknown medical problem is responsive to painful stimuli and breathing poorly at a rate of 8 per minute. The airway is patent and skin warm and moist. His radial pulse is strong and irregular. Breath sounds are clear. Vital signs are pulse 84, blood pressure 256/120, and SpO₂ 81%. Your best treatment of the patient's breathing would be:

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The patient's low respiratory rate, decreased oxygen saturation, and strong but irregular pulse suggest respiratory failure with possible severe hypertension. Positive pressure ventilation can help treat hypoxia and improve respiratory function. High-concentration oxygen through a nonrebreather or nasal cannula may not be enough to adequately oxygenate the patient, and CPAP may not be effective enough in a patient with low respiratory rate.

A Patient with an Unknown Medical Problem Is Responsive to Painful