Question

A 72-year-old ex-smoker with COPD presents with increased breathlessness, productive cough and wheeze for 3 days. Saturations are 90% on air; there is no consolidation on chest X-ray. What is the most appropriate initial management in primary care?

Accepted Answer

Short course of oral Prednisolone plus increased inhaled bronchodilators and consider oral antibiotics if sputum is purulent

Answer

High-dose oral steroids alone

Answer

Immediate high-dose IV diuretics

Answer

Start long-term oxygen therapy immediately

Answer

No treatment needed; review in 2 weeks

Practice question

A 72-year-old ex-smoker with COPD presents with increased breathlessness, productive cough and wheeze for 3 days. Saturations are 90% on air; there is no consolidation on chest X-ray. What is the most appropriate initial management in primary care?