Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR)

Breathing · Medicine · 10–20 min

Bedside spirometric assessment of large-airway obstruction.

Indications

  • • Asthma monitoring
  • • Acute severity assessment

Contraindications

  • ⚠ Recent MI
  • ⚠ Pneumothorax
  • ⚠ Unable to cooperate

Equipment

  • • Peak flow meter
  • • Disposable mouthpiece

Positioning

  • • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • • Explain risks & complications
  • • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • • Hand hygiene
  • • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • • Aseptic technique
  • • Sharps safety
  • • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/4)

Tap to complete

Standing, deep breath in.

Immediate complications

  • ⚠ Cough, syncope (rare)

Post-procedure observation

  • • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • • Site inspection
  • • Symptom review

Documentation

  • • Procedure note
  • • Consent
  • • Findings

Patient instructions

  • • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Related in WardRound

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds