COPD & Asthma

Obstructive disease means air goes in but struggles to get out.

Key points

• COPD: target SpO2 often 88–92%; teach pursed-lip breathing.
• Asthma: short-acting bronchodilator is the rescue drug.
• A "silent chest" in asthma is an emergency.
• Rinse the mouth after inhaled corticosteroids.

Test-taking tip: Eliminate options that are true but do not answer the question asked.