Mini Wright Standard Peak Flow Meter for Asthma

Product Summary

• The Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter is the internationally recognised 'Gold Standard' in peak flow measurement and exceeds the NAEPP Guidelines for Performance.
• Since asthma conditions can sometimes change slowly over the course of time, using your peak flow meter on a daily basis can become an important tool and may show changes in your breathing before you even feel them.
• The Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter measures the speed at which air is exhaled from your lungs, giving you a measurement of how well your airways are working.
• It has a clear, easy-to-read scale which measures from 30 to 400 litres per minute (low range) and from 60 to 850 litres per minute (standard range).
• It is also lightweight, compact, latex-free and can be sterilised.

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

How does the Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter work?

The Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter helps a person with asthma or another lung disease to measure how healthy air is moving out of the lungs. It calculates peak expiratory flow (PEF) — how quickly you can breathe out after taking a full breath. Daily use can also allow you to track changes in your lung function and detect early warning signs of breathing issues before symptoms of wheezing or coughing happen. This allows you and your physician to make changes early on, hopefully avoiding flare-ups or hospitalisation. It's most helpful in managing your asthma daily and ensuring your treatment works.

How do I use the Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter correctly?

To get an accurate reading, stand or sit upright, take a deep breath, and blow as firmly and fast as possible into the mouthpiece. Do this task three times, and record the highest of the three readings. Use the device simultaneously every day, ideally morning and night, or as instructed by your doctor. Clean the mouthpiece regularly and apply the correct technique, as improper technique leads to incorrect readings. Your doctor or asthma nurse will show you how to use it.

How is peak flow monitoring helpful in asthma?

Peak flow readings enable you to recognise changes in your breathing before they become apparent. It helps to treat them early to prevent asthma attacks. By monitoring your peak flow readings against your best, you can check whether you are heading into the green (well-controlled), amber (caution), or red (danger) zone. They are often part of a personal asthma action plan, which informs you what to do depending on your symptoms. Monitoring regularly also means that your doctor can tweak your medication and notice if your asthma is deteriorating, even if you don't feel unwell.

Who can benefit from using a peak flow meter?

Peak flow meters are especially beneficial for people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing disorders. They also benefit children, adolescents, and adults who need to monitor how well their lungs work over time. If you have newly been diagnosed with asthma, are switching medication, or have recurrent symptoms, your doctor may recommend regular peak flow monitoring. The Mini Wright meter is easy to take with you, easy to use, and a good quality meter, but it is not usually needed for people with very mild asthma unless told to do so.

How do I read and interpret the results?

The reading of the Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter in litres per minute (L/min) can be taken from the meter after blowing into it. Note the position where the pointer stops on the scale. Compare this to your best — the most you have ever read when your asthma is well controlled. If your reading is lower than usual, it may mean that your asthma is worsening. Using a traffic light system (red, amber, green) can assist in keeping track of if your breathing is stable or at risk. Always record the findings and show them to your doctor at appointments.

How do I clean and maintain my Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter?

So that your Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter remains in good working order, clean it every week. Remove the mouthpiece and wash it in warm, soapy water. Clean thoroughly and dry in the air fully before reassembling. Avoid using harsh chemicals or hot water, which can destroy the device. Never share your peak flow meter with another individual to prevent the passing of germs. Store it in a dry, clean environment and check regularly for wear or damage. A well-maintained meter gives more accurate results and a longer life.