Home Lung Function Test: How It Is Done

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How It Is Done

Before you begin to test your peak expiratory flow (PEF), remove any gum or food you may have in your mouth. Follow these steps to use your peak flow meter:

1. Set the pointer on the gauge of the peak flow meter to 0 (zero).
2. Attach the mouthpiece to the peak flow meter.
3. Stand up or sit up straight to allow yourself to take a deep breath. Whether you stand or sit up straight, make sure you use the same position each time you test your PEF.
4. Place the peak flow meter mouthpiece in your mouth and close your lips tightly around the outside of the mouthpiece. Do not put your tongue inside the mouthpiece.
5. Breathe out as hard and as fast as you can using a huff. You do not need to breathe out for more than a second.
6. Note the value on the gauge.
7. Move the pointer on the gauge back to 0 (zero) before you blow again.
8. Blow into the peak flow meter 2 more times. Record your values each time you blow. If you cough or make a mistake during the testing, do the test over.
9. After you have blown into your peak flow meter 3 times, record the highest value on your daily record sheet.

Last updated:	January 24, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer