Step 2 ck HY concept

A 65-year-old male presents to the clinic with a 5-day history of fever, productive cough with yellow sputum, and shortness of breath. He has a history of COPD and is a current smoker. On physical examination, his temperature is 38.5°C (101.3°F), respiratory rate is 22 breaths/min, and oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Lung auscultation reveals crackles in the right lower lobe.

What is the next best step in the management of this patient?

A. Start empiric antibiotic therapy with amoxicillin-clavulanate.
B. Order a chest X-ray C. Obtain a sputum culture and sensitivity before initiating treatment.
D. Initiate treatment with bronchodilators and corticosteroids for COPD exacerbation.