Question

A 68-year-old man with COPD presents with acute severe breathlessness. His oxygen saturation is 86%. He is tachypnoeic and using accessory muscles. Which initial oxygen therapy is recommended?

Accepted Answer

C. Controlled oxygen via Venturi mask aiming for SpO2 of 88-92%

Answer

A. 15 L/min via non-rebreathe mask

Answer

B. High-flow nasal cannula at 60 L/min

Answer

D. No oxygen until ABG results are available

Answer

E. Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) immediately

Practice question

A 68-year-old man with COPD presents with acute severe breathlessness. His oxygen saturation is 86%. He is tachypnoeic and using accessory muscles. Which initial oxygen therapy is recommended?