Think about using wind and groundspeed to make a steeper descent. Ponder the effects of minimum speed, a strong headwind, full flaps. With a strong headwind, note the difference in glidepath between finals flown at minimum airspeed and those made at faster speeds. Use wind, speed, configuration to maintain a conservative pattern size while they venture out to the adjoining county. This is achieved by thinking ahead.
People ask why pattern prudence is no important.
But, no matter how reliable the engine, we cannot escape the fact that operations in the vicinity of an airport create an engine failure scenario far removed from that encountered enroute. Options and time dwindle when near an airport. The gap between failure and touchdown shrinks from several minutes to one or less. As a result, the pilot who doesn't strategize for engine failure close to the ground, and practice tactics needed to safely recover the aircraft, is a fool. For maximum life, return the respirator to its sealed bag after it is dry.