Measurement
The highest of three readings is used as the recorded value of the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate. It may be plotted out on graph paper charts together with a record of symptoms or using peak flow charting software. This allows patients to self-monitor and pass information back to their doctor or nurse.
Peak flow readings are often classified into 3 zones of measurement according to the American Lung Association; green, yellow, and red. Doctors and health practitioners can develop an asthma management plan based on the green-yellow-red zones.
| Zone | Reading | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Green Zone | 80 to 100 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings are clear. | A peak flow reading in the green zone indicates that the asthma is under good control. |
| Yellow Zone | 50 to 79 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings | Indicates caution. It may mean respiratory airways are narrowing and additional medication may be required. |
| Red Zone | Less than 50 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings | Indicates a medical emergency. Severe airway narrowing may be occurring and immediate action needs to be taken. This would usually involve contacting a doctor or hospital. |
Read more about this topic: Peak Expiratory Flow
Famous quotes containing the word measurement:
“That’s the great danger of sectarian opinions, they always accept the formulas of past events as useful for the measurement of future events and they never are, if you have high standards of accuracy.”
—John Dos Passos (1896–1970)