Which of the following strategies is useful in determining the underlying cause of hypoxemic respiratory failure?

Conducting imaging studies such as a chest x-ray is a fundamental strategy in determining the underlying cause of hypoxemic respiratory failure. Imaging plays a critical role in the initial assessment and diagnosis of respiratory conditions. A chest x-ray can help identify various pathological conditions including pneumonia, pulmonary edema, pneumothorax, and other structural issues affecting the lungs which can contribute to hypoxemia.

By visualizing the lungs and surrounding structures, clinicians can gather valuable information that informs the potential etiology of the respiratory distress. For example, the presence of infiltrates might suggest an infectious process like pneumonia, while a pleural effusion could be contributing to the patient's hypoxemic state.

In contrast, performing a full blood count provides data on blood cells but does not directly address the lung pathology causing hypoxemia. Administering high flow oxygen therapy may alleviate symptoms of hypoxemia temporarily but does not help identify the cause. Similarly, initiating corticosteroid therapy can be helpful in inflammatory processes but does not serve as a diagnostic tool. Imaging thus remains a primary and effective method for uncovering the underlying issues leading to hypoxemic respiratory failure.