What is required if the FEV1 of a COPD driver is less than 65% predicted?

When assessing a driver with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), an FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second) value of less than 65% predicted indicates significant respiratory impairment. In such cases, performing an Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis is crucial because it provides vital information about oxygenation and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, as well as the driver’s overall respiratory function.

This data is essential for determining the severity of the condition and whether the driver can safely operate a commercial vehicle. ABG analysis helps evaluate the adequacy of ventilation and the presence of respiratory failure, both of which can impact the driver’s ability to maintain safety on the road.

The other options, while potentially relevant in some contexts, do not address the immediate need for a thorough assessment of the driver's respiratory status indicated by a significantly reduced FEV1. Re-evaluation after a month or referral to a specialist may be appropriate follow-up steps, but they do not provide the same level of immediate information regarding the driver’s ability to perform safely. Immediate disqualification is also an extreme response without first assessing the patient's current physiological status via ABG.