Question

A 65-year-old man with known COPD (FEV₁ 45% predicted) presents with increased dyspnoea, sputum volume and purulence over 3 days. He is afebrile and saturating 92% in air. Which of the following treatments is most appropriate as part of initial management of this moderate COPD exacerbation in the emergency department?

Accepted Answer

Commence nebulised short-acting bronchodilators and controlled oxygen targeting saturation 88-92%

Answer

High-dose oxygen via non-rebreather mask to maintain saturation >98%

Answer

Start long-term oral corticosteroids at 25 mg prednisolone daily

Answer

Immediate intubation and invasive ventilation

Answer

Withhold bronchodilators and give antibiotics only

Practice question