The respiratory therapist is called to the emergency room. Chest X-ray reveals a right lower lobe consolidation. The patient is awake, but lethargic and using his accessory muscles to breathe. An ABG has been drawn. What should the respiratory therapist recommend next?
ABG results
PH: 7.24
PaCO2: 59
PaO2: 65
HCO3: 24
- Non-invasive mask ventilation
- Antibiotics
- 4 LPM nasal cannula
- Intubation and mechanical ventilation