Revue des maladies respiratoires
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Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is considered as the first choice treatment for selected patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF), but many hospitals are forced to start NIV on medical wards. ⋯ NIV is practicable and is effective in the management of mild to moderate ARF on a respiratory ward. However, patients with respiratory acidosis and a pH less than 7.30 are at risk of NIV failure.