What must a patient experiencing severe respiratory failure be on?

A patient experiencing severe respiratory failure requires immediate assistance with their breathing, which is why being on an oxygen supply or a ventilator is essential. This medical condition implies that the lungs are not able to provide sufficient oxygen to the body or remove carbon dioxide effectively, necessitating mechanical support for gas exchange.

An oxygen supply or ventilator assists in maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream and ensuring that carbon dioxide is expelled, which is critical for sustaining life. Other interventions, like medications, exercise, or dietary supplements, are not primary needs in this acute situation, as they do not address the immediate respiratory insufficiency that could threaten the patient's life. This understanding reinforces the prioritization of mechanical ventilation or supplemental oxygen as a vital intervention in managing severe respiratory failure.