Algorithm for Management of Acute Exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD)



Obtain workup for alternate diagnoses and relevant comorbidities:

 • CBC, vitamin D level, troponin, BNP/NT-proBNP, d-dimer

 • Sputum gram stain and culture if frequent exacerbations, severe airflow limitation (GOLD Ill) or mechanically ventilated

 • CXR, Lung US, Echo, LE doppler, CTA

 • ECG

 • Nasopharyngeal swab for influenza and

 • SARS-CoV-2 (or complete respiratory viral pathogen panel)

 • Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency for newly diagnosed COPD



Assess severity of AECOPD:

 • Clinical examination

 • Continuous pulse oximetry

 • Start supplemental oxygen to maintain target Sp02 88-92%

 • VBG/ABG



Matthew Ho, MD PhD @MatthewHoMD



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