16th February 2025

A 70 year old is seen in the community. He has a background of heart failure and COPD and has been struggling with breathlessness

A 70 year old is seen in the community. He has a background of heart failure and COPD and has been struggling with breathlessness for 6 months. He was recently seen by the frailty team at his local hospital who did a CT scan and blood tests, which showed emphysematous lungs and no signs of acute infection. He has an appointment with his respiratory team in 1 month’s time.

Observation today: sats 95% on room air, RR 22/minute, BP 124/76 mmHg, T 36.3 degrees Celsius.

He is asking whether you might start oxygen for him. Which of the following is the most appropriate response?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.