skip to main content

COPD with severe resting hypoxemia — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardInternal Medicine (chronic management)COPD with severe resting hypoxemiaUSMLE Step 3

A 72-year-old man with COPD is hospitalized for an exacerbation. He improves with bronchodilators, prednisone, and azithromycin. Before discharge, oxygen saturation is 86% at rest on room air and 92% on 2 L/min oxygen. He quit smoking last year. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Prescribe long-term oxygen therapy and reassess after stabilization

Severe resting hypoxemia in COPD is an indication for supplemental oxygen. Oxygen need should be reassessed after recovery because requirements can change after exacerbation.

Reference: GOLD COPD strategy