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COPD rescue pack advice — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsCOPD rescue pack adviceGPhC CRA

A patient with COPD has a rescue pack containing prednisolone and doxycycline. They ask when to use the antibiotic component. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: C — Use antibiotics when sputum becomes purulent or infection is suspected

COPD rescue antibiotics are intended for infective exacerbations, particularly increased sputum purulence. The patient should follow the agreed self-management plan and seek review if not improving. In this scenario, the correct option is use antibiotics when sputum becomes purulent or infection is suspected. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF