Which statement regarding oxygen administration is true for patients with COPD?

In patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), oxygen administration should be approached with caution. This is due to the unique pathophysiology of COPD, where patients often rely on hypoxic drive to stimulate breathing. Providing oxygen at high concentrations can suppress their respiratory drive, leading to inadequate ventilation and potential carbon dioxide retention, which can exacerbate respiratory failure.

Administering oxygen cautiously allows healthcare providers to monitor the patient's oxygen saturation levels and adjust the flow rate to maintain adequate oxygenation while minimizing the risk of respiratory complications. Individualized treatment based on each patient's condition is vital; thus, managing oxygen therapy is more nuanced than a blanket high-concentration administration or liberal use.

This careful approach ensures that patients with COPD maintain adequate oxygen levels without triggering dangerous respiratory consequences, highlighting the importance of tailored care in managing their condition effectively.