A 72-year-old male with a history of severe COPD presents with increased dyspnea, cough, and sputum production for 3 days. He is hypoxic with an SpO2 of 88% on room air. After initiating supplemental oxygen and bronchodilators, which additional intervention has been shown to reduce mortality in patients with acute COPD exacerbations?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) significantly improves outcomes, including reduced mortality and intubation rates, in patients with acute COPD exacerbations and respiratory acidosis or severe dyspnea.