What action should be taken if a patient on CPAP experiences worsening respiratory distress?

When a patient on CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) exhibits worsening respiratory distress, the most appropriate action is to remove the CPAP and assist with ventilation. This is because CPAP helps keep the airways open and can improve oxygenation, but if the patient's condition continues to worsen, it indicates that they may not be able to effectively ventilate on their own.

Assisting with ventilation provides direct support, ensuring that the patient receives adequate breaths and maintaining proper gas exchange, which is crucial in a state of respiratory distress. If the CPAP is not providing sufficient support, the immediate step of removing it allows for better management of the patient's airway and breathing.

In this scenario, while increasing the CPAP pressure could potentially help in some cases, it may not be effective if the patient is already in significant distress. Administering higher doses of bronchodilators might improve airway patency but would not address immediate respiratory failure effectively. Lastly, reassessing the need for intubation is an important consideration but may not provide immediate relief in an emergency situation; timely ventilation support takes precedence in addressing acute respiratory distress.