COPD exacerbations can be treated with which set?

• A. Supplemental oxygen, SABA, steroids, antibiotics
• B. Oxygen only
• C. SABA and antibiotics only
• D. Nebulizers without oxygen

Answer: (A)

Managing a COPD flare involves addressing bronchospasm, airway inflammation, potential infection, and low oxygen levels. Supplying supplemental oxygen helps correct hypoxemia and reduces work of breathing, which is crucial during an exacerbation. A short-acting bronchodilator (a beta-agonist) rapidly opens the airways and relieves wheeze and dyspnea, improving expiratory flow. Systemic corticosteroids shorten recovery time and improve lung function by dampening the inflammatory response in the airways. Antibiotics are added when a bacterial infection is suspected or there are signs such as increased sputum purulence, volume, or worsening dyspnea, to help resolve the infection driving the flare.

Together, these components—oxygen, bronchodilator, corticosteroid, and antibiotic—address the main problems of the acute COPD exacerbation. Options that omit any of these elements fail to provide comprehensive management, which is why the set including all four is the best choice.