Relevant concomitant care permitted or prohibited during the trial {11d}
COPD, ARF
ARF, COPD, SECONDARY
In both arms, diagnostic tests, administration of systemic therapy (e.g., antibiotics, steroids, and inhaled bronchodilators), and hemodynamic management will be performed according to the best clinical practice at enrolling centers. The right size of the mask will be selected according to the indications provided by the manufacturer. The mask straps will be adjusted in compliance with the “two-finger rule” so as to not tighten too hard the headgear [In accordance with international guidelines [For patients intubated due to hypercapnic ARF secondary to COPD or other causes related to hypercapnic ARF, NIV might be applied during early extubation and weaning. According to the international guidelines, NIV is recommended to aid weaning from invasive mechanical ventilation, when local expertise in its use exists [