True or False: All COPD patients should receive a rescue short-acting bronchodilator.

The statement is true because all patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) should have access to a rescue short-acting bronchodilator. This medication, often referred to as a quick-relief or rescue inhaler, is essential in managing acute exacerbations of COPD symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing.

Rescue bronchodilators, typically short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, leading to quick relief from bronchospasm. This is crucial for all COPD patients because the nature of the disease can lead to unpredictable flare-ups, regardless of the chronicity or severity of their underlying condition. Therefore, having a rescue inhaler available enables patients to effectively manage acute episodes that could significantly impair their quality of life or lead to more severe complications.

The notion that only patients with severe symptoms should have a rescue inhaler undermines the proactive approach necessary for managing COPD effectively. Symptoms can vary widely among patients, and even those with moderate disease can experience sudden exacerbations that require immediate intervention. Providing a rescue bronchodilator for all COPD patients ensures they are equipped to respond to these situations promptly, enhancing their ability to maintain everyday functioning and preventing hospital