Advanced Medical Life Support (AMLS)

What condition is likely to be present in COPD patients with acute shortness of breath?

1. Pulmonary embolism

2. Angina pectoris

3. Angioedema

4. Hypertensive crisis

The correct answer is: Pulmonary embolism

In patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) who experience acute shortness of breath, a pulmonary embolism is a condition that is particularly relevant. COPD is characterized by chronic airflow limitation, primarily due to emphysema or chronic bronchitis, which may predispose individuals to complications such as a pulmonary embolism. The presence of a pulmonary embolism can cause sudden worsening of respiratory symptoms because it effectively reduces the blood flow to parts of the lung, causing increased shortness of breath, hypoxemia, and in severe cases, can lead to respiratory failure. Additionally, the presence of a thrombus can exacerbate the already compromised pulmonary function of COPD patients, leading to a significant increase in difficulty breathing and often necessitating urgent medical intervention. The other options, while they may be serious conditions, are less directly linked to acute respiratory distress in the context of a pre-existing diagnosis of COPD. Pulmonary embolism is unique in its ability to acutely and significantly impact the respiratory status in these patients.