Question

A 63-year-old man with known COPD presents with increased breathlessness, purulent sputum and wheeze. He uses a Salbutamol inhaler and a tiotropium inhaler at home. Observations: RR 26/min, SpO2 88% on air, pH 7.32, PaCO2 7.5 kPa on arterial blood gas. Which is the most appropriate initial oxygen therapy?

Accepted Answer

Controlled oxygen via Venturi mask aiming SpO2 88–92%

Answer

High-flow oxygen via non-rebreathe mask at 15 L/min

Answer

No oxygen as he is a CO2 retainer

Answer

Nasal cannulae at 2 L/min aiming SpO2 100%

Answer

Intubation and mechanical ventilation immediately

Practice question