Peak expiratory flow rate is the measurement of how much the patient can blow out of their lungs in one breath. It is a crude measurement and not as accurate as Spirometry. However it is useful for patients to perform themselves, especially when they are having a flare up of their respiratory disease such as asthma.
There are UK guidelines for the “normal” values which you can use to compare against the values your patient is able to achieve.
This station therefore tests several examination skills, firstly your knowledge of the underlying condition being monitored, how to use a peak flow meter and your ability to communicate both of these areas to the patient.
It is benefitial to check the patient’s understanding of their condition. If they do not fully understand then you should explain what is happening and that when they have an exacerbation they will find breathing more difficult. Furthermore, you should explain why measuring their PEFR is important as a guide to how well-controlled their asthma is at this time.
Explain to the patient that they should be checking their PEFR regularly, particularly if their asthma is worse than usual.
Explain the different steps in PEFR measurement to the patient. These are:
Once you have discussed the process with the patient, show the patient how to perform the measurement by measuring your own PEFR.
Once the technique has been demonstrated, ask the patient to show you how they would perform the measurement themselves. Make sure they are doing it correctly, and resolve any mistakes which they might be making.
Finish by asking the patient if they have any questions or concerns about either their asthma or taking their PEFR measurement.
