Final answer:
Patients with COPD typically should not receive supplemental oxygen without caution as it can worsen carbon dioxide retention and respiratory acidosis. Other patient groups mentioned generally require oxygen, but close monitoring is necessary in all cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Out of the four patient groups mentioned with difficulty breathing, the patient group that typically should not receive supplemental oxygen without caution is patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD can lead to chronic carbon dioxide retention, and giving these patients too much oxygen can actually dampen their respiratory drive, potentially leading to a worsening of carbon dioxide retention and respiratory acidosis. In contrast, patients with a history of carbon adioxide retention, severe asthma exacerbation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) usually require supplemental oxygen to help improve oxygenation. However, with any respiratory condition, it's essential to monitor the patient closely when administering supplemental oxygen to avoid complications.