Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What is the recommended dose of Hydrocortisone for severe exacerbations of asthma or COPD?

1. 100mg IV

2. 200mg IV

3. 40-50mg PO

4. 500mcg IM

The correct answer is: 100mg IV

The recommended dose of hydrocortisone for severe exacerbations of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is typically 100 mg intravenously. This higher intravenous dose is indicated in acute situations where rapid response is necessary, such as in severe exacerbations. The use of hydrocortisone in these scenarios helps to reduce inflammation, improve airflow, and stabilize the patient’s condition. In contrast, the alternative options provided may not align with the current clinical guidelines for the treatment of severe exacerbations. For example, while 200 mg IV may seem plausible for severe cases, it usually exceeds the recommended dosing in clinical practice. Oral doses like 40-50 mg are more commonly used for chronic management rather than acute exacerbations. Intramuscular dosing at 500 mcg is insufficient for addressing the high demands of an acute exacerbation and is not recognized as a standard practice for this situation. Using 100 mg IV allows for effective, rapid management of severe exacerbations, reflecting the standard practices supported by clinical evidence and guidelines for treating these urgent respiratory conditions.