Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) is a leading cause of ICU admission, morbidity, and mortality, yet most research focuses specifically on mechanically ventilated patients with ARDS. Are AHRF and ARDS really different clinical entities? Should our approach to treatment differ? In this session, experts will discuss and debate best practices for managing early AHRF. Speakers will address common management decisions faced by intensivists every day, such as when to use HFNC, when to consider NIPPV, and when to intubate patients with ARHF. They will also identify gaps in our knowledge and discuss future directions for research.