Question

A 68-year-old man with known COPD (FEV₁ 45% predicted) presents with increased dyspnoea, productive cough and change in sputum colour over 3 days. He is afebrile, oxygen saturation is 90% on room air and there are no focal chest signs. What is the most appropriate initial management in general practice?

Accepted Answer

Start oral prednisolone and short course of oral antibiotics, and optimise bronchodilator therapy

Answer

Start a long-term oral corticosteroid regimen without other changes

Answer

Start high-dose inhaled corticosteroid monotherapy

Answer

Arrange immediate intubation and mechanical ventilation

Answer

Treat with oral antibiotics alone and avoid steroids

Practice question