In this episode of the TV show, we focus on categorising a patient according to the Anthonison criteria which helps predict which patients should be given antibiotics for their exacerbation of their COPD. We also explore when to admit a patient to hospital, how to manage a patient in the community, and monitoring recovery of an exacerbation of COPD.

Key messages:

1. The Anthonison criteria is a useful measure when making decisions about treatment for an exacerbation of COPD.
2. Patients having an exacerbation of their COPD with increased sputum purulence are more likely to benefit from antibiotic therapy.
3. Patients recovering from an exacerbation should understand that their recovery might take time.