A 62-year-old man with COPD (FEV₁ 35% predicted) is admitted with an acute exacerbation. Arterial blood gas on room air shows pH 7.28, PaCO₂ 68 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 32 mEq/L, and PaO₂ 48 mmHg. He is alert and cooperative. What is the most appropriate immediate next step?

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