NethrowPC

A Peak Flow Meter is a measuring device which enables airflow to be essed in the lungs. It is particularly useful for monitoring asthma and can form part of a self-management plan. There are a number of different types of Peak Flow Meter but they all work on the same principle. In this episode we show how to correctly use one type of Peak Flow Meter.

Asthma is a common condition that can cause variable and intermittent symptoms such as cough, wheezing and breathlessness. A Peak Flow Meter can also provide essential information into the severity of acute asthma attacks. The meters are easy to use and available on prescription in the UK.

The readings from a Peak Flow Meter are generally unreliable in children under the age of six or seven.

Do not obstruct the cursor with your hand. Do not obstruct the mouthpiece with your tongue. Stand or sit up straight. Check the cursor is set to zero. Take a deep breath in and seal you lips around the mouthpiece. Blow out suddenly and hard. Check the cursor reading. Repeat twice more using the best reading of the three attempts. The meter records the speed of the blow and is measured in litres per minute.

Everyone has a predicted reading depending on age and height. It is important that you know your own best reading. This information is helpful for your doctor as well as for you and your own self-management plan.

Builth and Llanwrtyd Medical Practice has made every effort to ensure that the information in these episodes is accurate, up to date, and as helpful as possible. However we will not be responsible for any inaccuracies or omissions.
In particular if you are unwell, it is important that you do not rely on information from the Internet – you should seek professional medical advice from your Doctor. If your condition is getting worse, or if you are seriously ill, you should call or visit your Surgery.

Duration : 0:2:26

Technorati Tags: asthma, blow, Builth, Doctor, flow, Health, medic, medical, meter, monitor, nurse, peak, Powys, Wells, wheeze

Tags: asthma, blow, Builth, Doctor, flow, Health, medic, medical, meter, monitor, nurse, peak, Powys, Wells, wheeze

This entry was posted on Sunday, July 5th, 2009 at 4:12 am and is filed under Information Management. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.