A 69-year-old woman with COPD has increased breathlessness, purulent sputum and wheeze. Her oxygen saturation is 86% on air, pH is 7.31, PaCO2 is 8.1

Question

A 69-year-old woman with COPD has increased breathlessness, purulent sputum and wheeze. Her oxygen saturation is 86% on air, pH is 7.31, PaCO2 is 8.1 kPa and chest X-ray shows no pneumothorax. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Controlled oxygen targeting 88-92%, bronchodilators, antibiotics or corticosteroids as indicated, and consider non-invasive ventilation

Answer

Long-term oxygen therapy assessment before acute treatment

Answer

High-flow oxygen targeting 98-100% oxygen saturation

Answer

Oral antihistamine and nasal steroid spray

Answer

Immediate discharge with increased inhaled corticosteroid dose

Acute COPD exacerbation — PARA MCQ

A 69-year-old woman with COPD has increased breathlessness, purulent sputum and wheeze. Her oxygen saturation is 86% on air, pH is 7.31, PaCO2 is 8.1 kPa and chest X-ray shows no pneumothorax. What is the most appropriate management?