Which component of COPD exacerbation management is represented by the letter O in the C-O-P-D mnemonic?

Which component of COPD exacerbation management is represented by the letter O in the C-O-P-D mnemonic?

• A. Vaccinations and education
• B. Oral bronchodilators
• C. Oral antibiotics
• D. Oxygen therapy

Answer: (D)

Oxygen therapy. In a COPD flare, gas exchange often becomes worse due to airway inflammation and mucus plugging, so providing supplemental oxygen to correct low oxygen levels is a key step. The goal is to maintain adequate tissue oxygen delivery while avoiding excessive oxygen in patients who chronically retain CO2. A common target is an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of about 88–92% (or 90–92% in some settings). Start with a low flow via a nasal cannula and titrate up while monitoring with pulse oximetry and, if needed, arterial blood gases. If signs of rising CO2 or respiratory failure appear, escalate care appropriately.

Oxygen therapy. In a COPD flare, gas exchange often becomes worse due to airway inflammation and mucus plugging, so providing supplemental oxygen to correct low oxygen levels is a key step. The goal is to maintain adequate tissue oxygen delivery while avoiding excessive oxygen in patients who chronically retain CO2. A common target is an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of about 88–92% (or 90–92% in some settings). Start with a low flow via a nasal cannula and titrate up while monitoring with pulse oximetry and, if needed, arterial blood gases. If signs of rising CO2 or respiratory failure appear, escalate care appropriately.