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COPD oxygen target — DIPIMC MCQ

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HardMedical EmergenciesCOPD oxygen targetDIPIMCDipIMC

A 72-year-old with known COPD is breathless with a productive cough. On arrival his oxygen saturation is 84%, and a previous admission noted carbon dioxide retention. How should oxygen be delivered initially?

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Correct answer: E — Controlled oxygen via a 28% Venturi mask, titrated to a target of 88-92%

In a patient at risk of hypercapnic respiratory failure, oxygen is titrated to a target of 88-92% using a controlled device such as a 28% Venturi mask, balancing correction of hypoxia against the risk of worsening hypercapnia. A non-rebreathe mask risks dangerous hyperoxia in this group, while withholding oxygen leaves harmful hypoxia untreated. An arterial gas should not delay treatment of significant hypoxia. Pearl: hypoxia harms more quickly than hypercapnia, so a saturation of 84% must not be left untreated while seeking a target.

Reference: BTS Oxygen Guideline; JRCALC Clinical Guidelines