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COPD long-term oxygen assessment — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateInternal Medicine (chronic management)COPD long-term oxygen assessmentUSMLE Step 3

A 69-year-old man with COPD comes for follow-up after an exacerbation. He uses tiotropium and albuterol. He is not dyspneic at rest. Pulse oximetry is 88% while seated and 84% after walking. Arterial blood gas on room air shows PaO2 of 54 mm Hg. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

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Correct answer: C — Prescribe long-term supplemental oxygen

Long-term oxygen therapy improves survival in COPD with severe resting hypoxemia, including PaO2 at or below 55 mm Hg or oxygen saturation at or below 88%.

Reference: GOLD COPD report