Question

A 59-year-old with acute COPD exacerbation and purulent sputum asks about antibiotics. No pneumonia and increased dyspnoea and sputum purulence. What is advised?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics are indicated when increased dyspnoea and sputum purulence/volume are present

Answer

No antibiotics for any COPD exacerbation

Answer

Reserve antibiotics only for ICU patients

Answer

Use IV carbapenem for all

Answer

Wait for sputum cultures before starting

Practice question

A 59-year-old with acute COPD exacerbation and purulent sputum asks about antibiotics. No pneumonia and increased dyspnoea and sputum purulence. What is advised?