Which of the following statements is true regarding the use of accessory muscles in COPD patients?

The statement regarding the use of accessory muscles in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) that is true is that their use indicates increased work of breathing. In COPD, airflow limitation creates an increased resistance during expiration, which can lead to inadequate ventilation. To compensate, individuals may recruit accessory muscles, such as the sternocleidomastoid and scalene muscles, to enhance inhalation or exhalation. This recruitment is a physiological response to the increased effort required to breathe effectively.

The presence of accessory muscle use signals that the body is facing challenges with respiratory mechanics, highlighting the individual's struggle to maintain adequate ventilation. This is particularly relevant in the context of COPD, where respiratory muscle fatigue and associated discomfort are common, especially during exacerbations or in advanced stages of the disease.

Understanding this concept is vital for healthcare providers as it helps in assessing the severity of a patient's respiratory distress and can guide appropriate interventions. Proper management may include pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen, or medications aimed at reducing airway resistance, thereby alleviating the need for accessory muscle use.