COPD

Question 1

Are antibiotics recommended use for COPD?

True
False

Answer 1

False;
Antibiotics should NOT be used unless the patient has clinically signs of infection (increased sputum purulence additional to breathlessness).

Question 2

What are two main types of antibiotics recommended for COPD if indicated?

Answer 2

Amoxycillin and doxycycline

Question 3

What is the first-line pharmacological management of acute exacerbation of COPD?

Answer 3

Bronchodilators
Salbutamol, terbutaline
Antimuscarinic (e.g. ipratropium)

Salbutamol OR terbutaline OR ipratropium

Question 4

If the symptoms do not improve, then what is the optimal therapy?

Answer 4

Combine

Salbutamol or terbutaline WITH ipratropium

Question 5

What other adjuncts can be used for treatment?

Answer 5

Inhaled corticosteroids for 5 days:

• Hydrocortisone
• Prednisolone

Question 6

What other therapy can you provide for the patient for symptomatic relief?

Answer 6

Oxygen therapy (sat between 88% to 92%); patients are at increased risk of hypercapnoeic respiratory failure.

Ventilatory support in patients with hypercapnoeic respiratory failure and respiratory acidosis.