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COPD long-term oxygen assessment — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsCOPD long-term oxygen assessmentGPhC CRA

A 72-year-old woman with COPD requests oxygen because she is breathless on exertion. Her resting oxygen saturation is 91%, she has ankle swelling and her last FBC showed haematocrit 0.56. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Refer for specialist assessment for long-term oxygen therapy suitability

Long-term oxygen therapy requires specialist assessment and blood gas evaluation, not pharmacy sale. Low oxygen saturation with polycythaemia and oedema suggests advanced COPD complications. Oxygen can be harmful if used inappropriately, especially in patients at risk of carbon dioxide retention. The pharmacist should refer for clinical assessment and review of COPD management.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF