A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a forced expiratory volume in 1 second
A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio <70%. What stage is this per GOLD guidelines?
A. Stage 1
B. Stage 2
C. Stage 3
D. All stages of COPD
Answer: D
Explanation: An FEV1/FVC ratio <70% is the diagnostic criterion for COPD, present across all GOLD stages (1-4).
