Respiratory failure is a common emergency condition in the respiratory system, with patients often experiencing significant breathing difficulties, cyanosis, etc. So, what are the principles of treatment for respiratory failure? The overall principles of treatment are to enhance respiratory support, including maintaining airway patency, correcting hypoxia through oxygen therapy, and improving ventilation with the use of ventilators, among other measures. Additionally, it is important to intensify treatment of the causes and inducers of respiratory failure, such as controlling infections. Attention should also be paid to general supportive treatment, such as nutritional support, correcting electrolyte imbalances, etc., as well as protecting other vital organs, like the liver and kidneys.