COPD

Question 1

COPD exacerbation management

Answer 1

• Physiotherapy+ devices for sputum clearance
  Treatment:
  1) High dose SABA
  2) Consider short term pred for significant exacerbation

Aminophylline is used as an add on when bronchodilator response is inadequate.

Maintain target arterial blood oxygen saturation level via o2 therapy

Reserve invasive ventilation for intensive care

Question 2

COPD non drug treatment

Answer 2

• Stop smoking
• Breathing techniques
• Exercise + diet

Question 3

Which vaccinations are recommended in COPD

Answer 3

Pneumococcal and annual influenza

Question 4

COPD initial treatment

Answer 4

SABA as required
Step up if persistent symptoms or exacerbation with LABA + LAMA.
Consider ICS in cases of severe exacerbations or affecting QOL

Question 5

COPD and prophylactic abx

Answer 5

Consider azithromycin prophylaxis for non smokers with frequent or severe exacerbations after optimising other treatments