5 Questions
What is the purpose of measuring the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in patients with acute asthma?
To use as a triage tool for immediate assessment
In a moderate exacerbation of asthma, what percentage range of peak flow indicates this level of severity?
50-75% best or predicted
Which vital sign indicates acute severe asthma in a patient?
Respiratory rate (RR) less than 25/min
What feature distinguishes life-threatening asthma from acute severe asthma?
Peak flow between 33-50% best or predicted
Which of the following indicates a patient with life-threatening asthma?
Peak flow below 33% best or predicted
Study Notes
Assessing Acute Asthma
- Measure Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) and compare it to the expected value.
- PEFR serves as an immediate triage tool, except for patients with life-threatening asthma who may be too dyspneic to perform the test.
Severity of Acute Asthma
- Initial assessment is based on a combination of clinical features, peak flow measurement, and pulse oximetry.
Moderate Exacerbation of Asthma
- Symptoms of moderate exacerbation include:
- Peak flow 50–75% of best or predicted.
- No features of acute severe asthma.
Acute Severe Asthma
- Characterized by any one of the following:
- Peak flow 33–50% of best or predicted.
- Respiratory rate (RR) ≥25/min.
- Heart rate ≥110/min.
- Inability to complete sentences in one breath.
Life-Threatening Asthma
- Defined as severe asthma with any one of the following:
- Peak flow <33% of best or predicted.
- Other life-threatening symptoms.
Test your knowledge on measuring and interpreting peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in asthma patients. Learn to make an initial assessment of asthma severity using clinical features, peak flow measurement, and pulse oximetry.
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