Medical Emergencies · single question
For a patient with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), which is true regarding dental management?
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Correct answer: A. Cannot be placed in upright position; limit (do not eliminate) epinephrine use
✓ A) Cannot be fully supine; limit (not avoid) epinephrine is correct.
COPD management in dentistry: (1) Position: keep semi-upright/Fowler's position — supine position worsens dyspnea by reducing functional residual capacity; (2) Epinephrine: LIMIT rather than completely avoid — high doses of epi can cause cardiovascular effects and systemic bronchospasm, but dental concentrations (1:100,000) are generally acceptable with caution; (3) Supplemental O₂: use with caution in severe COPD (hypoxic drive) — not routinely at high flow; (4) Avoid nitrous oxide (can worsen air trapping).
COPD management in dentistry: (1) Position: keep semi-upright/Fowler's position — supine position worsens dyspnea by reducing functional residual capacity; (2) Epinephrine: LIMIT rather than completely avoid — high doses of epi can cause cardiovascular effects and systemic bronchospasm, but dental concentrations (1:100,000) are generally acceptable with caution; (3) Supplemental O₂: use with caution in severe COPD (hypoxic drive) — not routinely at high flow; (4) Avoid nitrous oxide (can worsen air trapping).
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