Peak flow

Question 1

Advice on how to do it properly

Answer 1

Setting it to zero before blowing
sitting up straight or standing
as deep a breath as possible
tight seal
exhale as hard and fast as possible
may help to demonstrate
check understanding
take 3 readings and record the best 2

Question 2

Describe what may be seen in diurnal variation.

Answer 2

More than 20% variation in twice-day readings

Question 3

List important questions to ask when counselling someone with a peak flow diary

Answer 3

Triggers
Occupation
Frequency of exacerbations, previous hospital admissions, intensive care admissions
Family or personal history of atopy
Best expected and most recent peak expiratory flow rate
smoking- including passive