Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) delivers mechanical ventilation without intubation by using techniques like CPAP and bi-level positive airway pressure. It can effectively treat acute respiratory failure from pulmonary edema or exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. NIV improves ventilation, reduces work of breathing, and avoids complications of intubation. Proper patient selection, ventilator settings tailored to the condition, and close monitoring are needed for NIV to successfully prevent intubation and shorten hospital stays.