Clinical guidelines on use of noninvasive ventilation in patients with acute respiratory failure

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) is widely used in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) of different etiology. European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society developed evidence-based clinical recommendations on NIV. This document summarises the current knowledge regarding the role of NIV in ARF including exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, hypoxaemic respiratory failure, immunocompromised patients, chest trauma, palliation, post-operative care, weaning and post-extubation.