For a 6-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes and hypertension experiencing respiratory distress, what treatment should be initiated?

In the scenario involving a 6-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes and hypertension who is experiencing respiratory distress, initiating Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is appropriate as it addresses the underlying issue of ventilation and oxygenation. CPAP is particularly effective in managing respiratory distress caused by conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, or congestive heart failure, as it helps keep the airways open and improves gas exchange in the lungs.

By providing a continuous flow of air, CPAP assists in maintaining positive pressure in the airways throughout the respiratory cycle, reducing the work of breathing and improving oxygenation. This non-invasive method is generally preferred in pediatric patients, especially when they are alert enough to cooperate, as it allows for easier management of their airways without the complications associated with invasive procedures like intubation.

The other treatments listed, while relevant in certain contexts, do not specifically address the immediate needs of this pediatric patient as effectively as CPAP. For instance, manual ventilation might be necessary if the patient becomes unresponsive or requires assistance, but in the case of respiratory distress, maintaining positive airway pressure is more beneficial. Oxygen therapy is crucial in any respiratory distress situation but may not adequately relieve the underlying problem without additional support like CPAP.