How to Determine Peak Flow Meter Values
A peak flow meter is a device that you can use to assess your lung's function. You simply blow into the device as hard as you can and it will then tell you how many liters of air you are pushing out per minute. A peak flow meter is commonly used in patients who have lung disease and continually using it will help to tell the doctor whether their conditions are improving or not. For example if a patient has progressively improving peak flow values, it means that her condition is also getting better.
Instructions
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Instructions
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1
Check if the peak flow meter is an electronic or manual device. If it is electronic, simply turn it on. If it is a manual device, slide the meter all the way down to the lowest level. This will help to reset the device if someone had used it before you.
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2
Take a deep breath in and then blow as hard as you can into the mouth part of the device. Continue blowing air until you are fully exhaled. This will help you to get an accurate reading on the peak flow meter device.
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3
Look at the reading on the peak flow meter device. If it is an electronic device, the reading will be displayed on the screen. If it is a manual device, look at the location of the meter and the corresponding level. This will help you to determine the value, but you may need to adjust it for your age, height or sex.
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4
Use a chart or an electronic program to compare your result with the reference range for your age, height or sex. You can contact your primary care doctor to get more information. You can also use an electronic chart or calculator to calculate your results (see Resources).
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