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Acute pulmonary oedema — DipIMC MCQ

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EasyMedical EmergenciesAcute pulmonary oedemaDipIMC

An 82-year-old man has acute breathlessness, pink frothy sputum, widespread crackles and blood pressure 190/110. Oxygen saturations are 84% on air. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

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

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Correct answer: C — Sit him upright, give oxygen and consider CPAP if available and within scope

Acute pulmonary oedema is helped by upright positioning, oxygen titration and ventilatory support such as CPAP where trained teams have it available. Lying flat worsens pulmonary congestion and work of breathing. Crystalloid boluses can worsen pulmonary oedema. The pearl is that positioning is a treatment in respiratory distress.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; NICE Acute Heart Failure CG187