Effects of Equipment and Technique on Peak Flow Measurements
Author Information
Author(s): Bongers Thomas, O'Driscoll B Ronan
Primary Institution: University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
Different lung function equipment and techniques may produce varying Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) results.
Conclusion
Peak flow measurements are affected by the instruction given and by the device and Peak Flow scale used.
Supporting Evidence
- The mean PEF was 8.7% higher when the PEF technique was used compared to the FVC technique.
- The turbine spirometer recorded PEF 5.5% lower than the Wright meter.
- The Fleisch spirometer result was 19.5% lower than the Wright reading.
- Adjustment of Wright's measurements to the new EU Peak Flow scale showed only a 7.2% difference from the Fleisch measurements.
Takeaway
Different machines and how you use them can change how well you can blow air out of your lungs, so it's important to use the same one every time.
Methodology
The study involved 36 subjects who recorded PEF measurements using two techniques (PEF and FVC) on three different devices.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from the instruction given to patients and the order of device use.
Limitations
The study only included adult patients and may not be generalizable to children or other populations.
Participant Demographics
18 males and 18 females, mean age 64 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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