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The primary goal when managing a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is to maintain optimal respiratory function and prevent exacerbations. This approach is critical because COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation that can significantly impair a patient's quality of life.

Maintaining optimal respiratory function involves implementing strategies that help patients breathe more easily and efficiently, thereby improving their overall well-being. This includes not just medical management but also lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and effective use of bronchodilators and corticosteroids.

Preventing exacerbations is equally important, as these acute episodes can lead to further deterioration of lung function, increased healthcare utilization, and a decrease in the patient’s quality of life. By focusing on preventing these episodes, healthcare providers can help stabilize the condition and reduce the frequency and severity of acute respiratory issues.

Other options, while they have merit, do not encapsulate the comprehensive management strategy tailored for COPD. Reducing medication usage may not be appropriate if it compromises disease management. Similarly, preventing all hospital visits is not realistic, considering that some patients may still require acute care despite best efforts to manage the disease. Offering only symptom relief would neglect the importance of addressing the underlying disease process and its progression.