Peak Flow Flashcards
What is the first step in peak flow measurement?
Explain procedure
What is the second step in peak flow measurement?
Gain consent
What is the third step in peak flow measurement?
Ask best/current peak flow
What is the fourth step in peak flow measurement?
Wash hands
What is the fifth step in peak flow measurement?
Assemble the equipment required for peak flow measurement
What is the sixth step in peak flow measurement?
Ask the patient to adopt normal position- standing or sitting ensuring the neck is not flexed
What is the seventh step in peak flow measurement?
Ensure the needle is at 0
What is the eighth step in peak flow measurement?
Advise the patient to hold the meter horizontally and ensure the patient’s fingers do not obstruct the gauge
What is the ninth step in peak flow measurement?
Instruct the patient to take a deep breath through the mouth to full inspiration
What is the tenth step in peak flow measurement?
Instruct the patient to keep their lips tightly around the mouthpiece
What is the eleventh step in peak flow measurement?
Instruct the patient to blow out through the mouth piece in one short “huff”
What is the twelfth step in peak flow measurement?
Take the reading, documenting the best of 3
What is the thirteenth step in peak flow measurement?
If the readings vary by more than 40 litres take 2 further readings, being aware that the patient may become increasingly breathless
What is the fourteenth step in peak flow measurement?
Document the reading on the chart, comparing the reading with the predicted/best previous reading
What is the fifteenth step in peak flow measurement?
Dispose of mouthpiece- clean meter
