First, the patient should reset the meter by sliding the marker all the way to zero on the scale. While there are several traditional peak flow meters of various designs on the market, they all use the same general principle. Clinicians should prepare for these types of devices as they become more prevalent. Prices for these devices continue to decline and are commonly available for less than one hundred dollars. Several miniaturized smart devices are now available on the market that will calculate both parameters, and some are even capable of interfacing with other devices to allow the automatic tabulation of data and transmission to health care providers. However, traditionally FEV1 measurement at home was not practical or technologically feasible. Peak expiratory flow rate, by itself, has limitations that make it inferior to FEV1 in clinical utility. Various manufacturer's models vary widely in styling, but they are typically cylindrical plastic devices with a mouthpiece on one end and an indicator and readings along the body. The most commonly used peak flow meter is a simple hand-held device that patients can reuse many times. For those patients who are relatively well controlled and can sense worsening symptoms early in the course of an exacerbation, as-needed measurement is appropriate. For those patients who demonstrate a pattern of not having pronounced symptoms despite increasing disease activity, a clinician should outline daily (or more) measurement to identify deterioration rapidly and intervene appropriately. Specific instructions on how often and when an individual patient should be instructed to measure peak flow depends on patient characteristics and provider preference. It can be denoted on the meter to aid in interpretation. Typically, this number should be obtained during a period when the patient is feeling well and has just received maximal asthma therapy. Obtaining a “personal best” peak flow measurement during steady state for each patient is preferable to using published normal values, and this number should be used by both patients and clinicians to evaluate disease activity objectively. The most widely accepted use of peak flow measurement is in the daily and/or as-needed ambulatory evaluation of asthma. Major societies and advocacy groups have published patient-facing websites with clear videos that demonstrate proper technique, which can help clinicians electing to start home measurements for their patients. Patients can learn the technique quickly, and the equipment necessary is affordable and widely available. Peak expiratory flow measurement (peak flow) is a simple measure of the maximal flow rate that can be achieved during forceful expiration following full inspiration. Outline the importance of improving care coordination among the interprofessional team to enhance the delivery of care for asthma patients who use peak flow meters.Summarize the clinical relevance of peak flow meters.Review the technique of using a peak flow meter.Describe the indications for use of peak flow meters. This activity describes the indications of peak flow meters and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in the education of patients with asthma and other lung disorders. Patients can learn the technique quickly, and the equipment necessary is affordable and widely available.
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