PEFR Flashcards
1
Q
What is PEFR?
A
This is the maximum flow rate recorded during a forced expiration.
2
Q
What do predicted readings depend on?
A
Age
Sex
Height
Ethnicity
3
Q
How do you assess PEFR?
A
PEFR readings less than the patient’s predicted, or usual best demonstrate airflow obstruction in the large airways.
4
Q
Using PEFR in determining the severity of asthma?
A
PEFR < 75% best or predicted- moderate asthma attack
PEFR < 50% best or predicted- acute severe asthma attack.
PEFR <33% best or predicted- life-threatening asthma attack.
5
Q
What does reversibility testing show?
A
Improvement in PEFR or FEV1 >15% following bronchodilator therapy (e.g. salbutamol) shows reversibility of airflow limitation and can help to distinguish asthma from COPD.
