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Stable COPD — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareStable COPDUSMLE Step 3

A 67-year-old former smoker has exertional dyspnea and chronic cough. Spirometry shows postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC of 0.62. He has no recent exacerbations and uses albuterol several times weekly. Oxygen saturation is 94% on room air. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Start a long-acting bronchodilator inhaler

Stable symptomatic COPD is managed initially with inhaled long-acting bronchodilator therapy; oxygen is for significant resting hypoxemia.

Reference: Current US clinical practice standards and USMLE Step 3 content outline, https://www.usmle.org/exam-resources/step-3-materials