So far there is no proven treatment for ARDS apart from treatment of the underlying disease process. Several strategies have been tried to improve oxygenation, including NO, surfactant, prostaglandins and prone ventilation. So far none of these measures has been studied in a well conducted randomized controlled fashion. (See cards: Nitric Oxide Inhalation, Surfactant Therapy, Prostaglandins and Prone Ventilation)

You continue all supportive measures and pressure controlled ventilation with FiO₂ of 60% and PEEP of 16 cm H₂O.