Table 2 Criteria for noninvasive positive pressure ventilation discontinuation and endotracheal intubation

Mask intolerance due to pain, discomfort or claustrophobia

Inability to improve gas exchanges and/or dyspnea

Haemodynamic instability or evidence of cardiac ischaemia or

ventricular dysarrhythmia

Need for urgent endotracheal intubation to manage secretions or

protect the airways

Inability to improve mental status, within 30 min after the application of

noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, in hypercapnic, lethargic

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients or agitated hypoxaemic

patients