Triggers, Comments Ask the patient to look for triggers when the peak flow drops. Compare the effect of an upper respiratory infection on the peak flow and symptoms before and after an effective preventive treatment plan is in place. Suggest that the patient record possible triggers, visits to the doctor and other significant events. Peak Flow Rate Show that the peak flow often falls before symptoms appear and returns to normal after symptoms disappear. Encourage patients to predict their peak flow scores to improve their perception of changes in air flow.
Medicines Write in the brand name, dose and frequency of each medication in the first column.
Ask the patient to record each dose. Calculate and record the discard date for each inhaler. Tell the patient that inhaled steroids may take one to two weeks, and cromolyn takes one to four weeks, to produce the full preventive effect. An inhaled beta-agonist increases peak flow within one to ten minutes. Signs Encourage patients to use quantitative evaluation of signs and symptoms to communicate clearly with the office.