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COPD rescue pack — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsCOPD rescue packGPhC CRA

A 68-year-old patient with COPD has a rescue pack of prednisolone and doxycycline. He has increased breathlessness but no change in sputum colour or volume. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: B — Use the rescue plan and contact the COPD team before starting antibiotics

Rescue packs should be used according to an agreed action plan. Antibiotics are generally reserved for exacerbations with purulent sputum or features suggesting bacterial infection. Prednisolone may be appropriate for significant worsening breathlessness within the agreed plan, but review is needed if uncertain or severe. Regular COPD inhalers should usually continue unless advised otherwise.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF