Pre-Quiz: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbation

Which of the following doses of corticosteroids would be most appropriate for a 54-year-old male with a history of moderate COPD, exacerbated symptoms, and increased intensity of symptoms compared to previous flare-ups?

A 54-year-old male with a history of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) presents to the Emergency Department with exacerbated symptoms over the past week, following a flu infection. He has had increased episodes of coughing accompanied by sputum production and progressive shortness of breath on exertion. In the context of this patient’s presentation, which of the following scenarios would correctly be classified as a moderate exacerbation of COPD?

A 46-year-old female with a known history of COPD presents to the Emergency Department in a severely dyspneic state following a viral infection. She struggles to complete her sentences due to shortness of breath and has noticeably increased sputum production. Emergency intervention with non-invasive mechanical ventilation has been initiated due to the severity of her symptoms. Recent lab results indicate elevated white blood cell counts and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

Considering the urgent circumstances, which of the following factors should be pivotal in deciding the initiation of antibiotic therapy?

A 54-year-old male with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a recent bout of flu, presents to the Emergency Department with escalated levels of dyspnea, cough, and wheezing over the past seven days. Upon evaluation, his respiratory rate is recorded at 35 bpm; he exhibits use of accessory muscles for respiration, and his oxygen saturation levels are at 89% on room air. The saturation sees an improvement with the usage of a venturi mask at 30% FiO2 for supplemental oxygen. The patient remains alert and oriented during this time. In light of these findings, what would the sub-category of this COPD exacerbation be?

A 46-year-old female with a history of COPD arrives at the Emergency Department after experiencing a severe exacerbation due to a viral infection. Exhibit symptoms include severe dyspnea that interrupts her speech and an increase in sputum production as reported by her husband. Due to the seriousness of her symptoms, the physicians initiate non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Laboratory results indicate an elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein. Among the following, which antibiotic would be appropriate for this patient?