Question

A 61-year-old with COPD exacerbation in the ED asks about antibiotics. Sputum is purulent and dyspnoea increased. Which is true?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics are indicated when increased dyspnoea, sputum volume, and/or purulence are present

Answer

Antibiotics never help COPD exacerbations

Answer

Antibiotics are indicated only with fever

Answer

Reserve antibiotics for ICU patients only

Answer

Use macrolide for 21 days routinely

Practice question

A 61-year-old with COPD exacerbation in the ED asks about antibiotics. Sputum is purulent and dyspnoea increased. Which is true?