How often should a patient establish their peak flow meter personal best readings?

Establishing a peak flow meter personal best reading is critical for patients with asthma or other respiratory conditions, as it provides a baseline measurement to compare with future readings. The correct frequency of twice daily for 2-3 weeks allows for a robust assessment of daily variability and potential changes in lung function.

During this period, the patient should measure their peak flow in the morning and evening to capture fluctuations that may occur at different times of the day. This comprehensive approach helps identify the highest level of airflow the patient can achieve, taking into account any variations that may be present due to factors such as time of day, physical activity, or environmental changes.

By measuring consistently over a period of a few weeks, the patient can ensure that the established personal best is representative of their peak flow capabilities under normal circumstances, which is essential for effective asthma management and creating an action plan based on changes from this baseline.