Asthma- Control Flashcards
What is the goal of asthma management
well controlled- lower ST and LT complications/morbidity/mortality
What 4 cues point towards suboptimal asthma control
- daytime symptoms >2x/wk
- sleep disturbance 2ndary to symptoms
- Reliever meds needed >2x/wk
- activity limitation d/t symptoms
In the office what should the NP perform to assess asthma control
peak flow spirometry measurements to assess peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)
What is PEFR a reflection of?
the amount of air volume exchanged with ventilation
this is a prevention tool to assess asthma control before it gets bad
How does PEFR reflect asthma control
in acute asthma airflow going out is trapped by bronchoconstriction :. lower than normal PEFR is seen
What patients should use a peak flow meter?
especially helpful for patients who don’t experience the normal subtle changes to indicate their asthma control is worsening
the meter will let them know it is worsening
The asthma action plan has 3 categories to guide care based on peak flow %s at the time of the reading vs personal best readings:
Green
Yellow
Red
What is the peak flow % for each category
Green 80+% of personal best
Yellow 60-80 % of personal best
Red <60% of personal best
When looking at environmental control what is important to assess
work related environmental issues
