Week 4 Peak Flow and MDI

Question 1

what are the five consequences of poor inhaler technique?

Answer 1

reduced lung deposition of the active drug

increased cost

insreased symptoms

increased side effects

decreased lung fxn

Question 2

what % of adults with asthma use poor inhaler technique?

Answer 2

50%

Question 3

what does a peak flow meter measure?

Answer 3

the maximum expiratory flow rate

Question 4

what are the effects of bronchoconstriction on peak flow

Answer 4

decrease peak flow rate

Question 5

what does it mean to have a peak flow in the green zone?

Answer 5

peak flow reading is 80-100% of the patients normal peak flow (under control), regular maintenance medication schedule is continued

Question 6

what are the 3 categories that correspond with an asthma patients asthma action plan

Answer 6

green, yellow, red

Question 7

what does it mean to have a peak flow in the yellow zone?

Answer 7

measured peak flow is 50-80% of normal. presence of narrowing passages. patient should use their rescue inhaler or take a nebulizer treatment

Question 8

what is a rescue inhaler

Answer 8

contains a different medication from maintenance inhaler. faster acting

Question 9

what is a nebulizer?

Answer 9

administers medication in the form of mist that is easily inhaled

Question 10

what does it mean to have peak flow in the red zone?

Answer 10

measured peak flow is less than 50%. indicates bronchoconstriction. rescue inhaler must be taken immediately and a hospital visit may be required

Question 11

what are the two types of inhalers for respiratory medication?

Answer 11

metered dose inhaler (MDI)

dry powder inhaler (DPI)

Question 12

what is a spacer?

Answer 12

makes it easier for some to use the MDI, not required for MDI use

Question 13

what are the steps to using a DPI? (9)

Answer 13

1. remove cap/cover
2. load dose of medication (pre-prepared dose of powder in a capsule or a lever that is twisted until it clicks
3. breathe out as much air as possible
4. close lips around mouthpiece
5. breathe in (fast) until lungs completely filled
6. hold breath for 10 sec
7. slowly breath out
8. if more than one dose is required wait one full minute before second dose
9. place cover on DPI (avoid getting wet)

Question 14

steps in using mdi

Answer 14

1. shake can
2. stand up tall with head back
3. press canister take slow deep breath in (hold for 10 seconds)
4. remove inhaler and exhale