Teaching Children and Parents About Peak Flow Meter Use in Asthma Management
Peak flow meter education should include proper technique demonstration, clear explanation of its purpose for monitoring asthma, and instructions on recording and interpreting results to guide treatment decisions. 1
Purpose and Importance of Peak Flow Meters
- A peak flow meter measures the maximum speed of exhalation (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate or PEFR), providing an objective measure of airway function in asthma 2
- Regular monitoring helps detect early changes in asthma control before symptoms become severe 1
- Peak flow monitoring is an essential component of self-management plans for children with asthma 1
- The measurements help children and parents recognize patterns in their asthma and identify triggers 1
Teaching Proper Technique
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Demonstrate the correct standing or sitting position with the neck in a neutral position (not flexed or extended) 2
- Show how to reset the peak flow meter indicator to the zero position before each measurement 2
- Instruct the child to:
- Have the child practice the technique under supervision until they can perform it correctly 1
- Emphasize that the highest value from three attempts should be recorded 2
Common Technique Errors to Address
- Research shows only 24% of children perform all peak flow meter steps correctly 3
- Watch for and correct these common mistakes:
- Not taking a full deep breath before blowing
- Not sealing lips completely around the mouthpiece
- Blowing too slowly instead of forcefully
- Blocking the meter with tongue or teeth 2
Recording and Interpreting Results
- Teach children and parents to:
- Record the best of three readings twice daily (morning and evening, before medication) 2
- Use the same time each day for consistency 2
- Document readings in a peak flow diary or chart 1
- Calculate the child's personal best peak flow (highest reading over a 2-3 week period when asthma is well-controlled) 1
- Explain how to interpret readings using a zone system:
- Green zone: 80-100% of personal best (asthma under control)
- Yellow zone: 50-80% of personal best (caution, asthma worsening)
- Red zone: Below 50% of personal best (medical alert, requires immediate action) 1
Incorporating into Asthma Management Plan
- Explain that peak flow monitoring is one of three key elements in a self-management plan:
- Monitoring symptoms, peak flow, and medication use
- Taking pre-arranged action based on readings
- Following written guidance 1
- Teach specific actions to take when readings fall into different zones:
- Yellow zone: Increase inhaled steroid or other controller medication
- Red zone: Take oral steroids (if prescribed) and seek urgent medical attention 1
- Emphasize that measurements should be taken for at least 2 weeks to establish reliable patterns 1
Practical Tips for Success
- Use electronic peak flow meters when possible, as they may improve adherence 1
- For younger children (5+ years), make the process engaging and rewarding 1
- Encourage children to take ownership of their peak flow monitoring as they get older 1
- Ensure proper cleaning of the device according to manufacturer's instructions 2
- Recommend that measurements be taken at the same time each day for consistency 2
Follow-up and Reinforcement
- Have the child demonstrate technique at each follow-up visit 3
- Review peak flow diaries to identify patterns and adjust the management plan as needed 1
- Reinforce that peak flow monitoring helps prevent severe asthma attacks by detecting early changes 1
- Provide written instructions that the family can reference at home 1
Remember that proper education about peak flow monitoring empowers children and parents to take an active role in asthma management, potentially reducing emergency visits and improving quality of life 1.