Ideally, peak expiratory flow should be measured before and after nebulizer treatments. Three PEFR measurements are obtained and only the highest is recorded. Peak flow is the most commonly used objective value that can be assessed at the bedside or at home a declining value indicates the patient’s condition is deteriorating or not responding to therapy. PEFR measurement is used to assess respiratory function in obstructive airway diseases (especially asthma) and to evaluate the patient’s response to bronchodilator therapy. Increased bronchospasm or narrowing of the airways results in a decreased speed of air flow. PEFR is the maximal flow rate that a person can achieve during a short maximal expiratory effort, following a full inspiration. Peak expiratory flow measurement is also known as peak flow or PEFR. In children experiencing acute asthma exacerbations, PEFR correlates poorly with clinical appearance. 2Īnticipate predicted values for peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) ( Table 1) to be approximately 10% lower for black and Hispanic patients than those shown in predicted peak flow tables. Use a low-range peak flowmeter for small children (typically 8 years old or younger) and use a standard-range peak flowmeter for older children, teenagers, and adults. Most children age 5 or older undefined#ref3">3 are capable of using a peak flowmeter ( Figure 1) as part of their asthma management plan. Do not attempt a peak expiratory flow measurement with patients who have had recent eye surgery after which straining is contraindicated. Peak Expiratory Flow Measurement - CE ALERTĭo not further stress patients who are severely short of breath or who are hemodynamically unstable by having them use a peak flowmeter.
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