Peak Flow

Wright Peak Flow Meter

Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter

Mini Peak Flow Meter EU Standard

Be aware that Peak Flow Meters manufactured to EN 13826 will be available from 1st September 2004.
Be aware of the differences in peak flow readings between the old and the new PFMs.

Peak Flow Meters manufactured to the new European standard EN 13826 are being introduced. They will replace the traditional Wright scale. The new standard is based on absolute flow and should produce peak flow measurements similar to those obtained by conventional spirometry, and a more accurate assessment of peak flow across the entire measurement range.

It has been known for some time that the Wright scale is non-linear and can over-read in the mid-range by up to 30%. This scale has been used for the diagnosis and management of asthma in the UK and Europe since 1959. The non linearity has not generally caused clinical problems, although in some cases the over-reading of the Wright scale may have falsely reassured patients and their healthcare professionals, so that corticosteroid therapy, whilst appropriate, was not prescribed. This has been the main clinical driver behind the introduction of the new scales and EN 13826.

The Nunn and Gregg patient nomograms (predictive peak flow values) are based on the Wright scale and should not be used with the new EN 13826 PFMs. However, it is expected that new revised predictions will become available.

The new PFMs will be CE marked and identified as complying with EN 13826, i.e. they may be labelled "EN 13826" or "EU scale".
Note that EN 13826 specifies one measurement range from 60 l/min to 800 l/min, which should be suitable for all users. However, low range models may also be available.

For further information see:-

"British Guideline on the Management of Asthma" by the British Thoracic Society, Revised edition April 2004, http://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/sign/index.htm

"Peak expiratory flow meter scale changes; implications for patients and health professionals" by Martin R Miller, The Airways Journal 2004; 2 (2): 80-2. http://www.airwaysextra.com

BS EN 13826:2003 Peak expiratory flow meters. Available from BSI. http://www.bsonline.techindex.co.uk

Wright Peak Flow Meter

Introduced in 1959, the Wright peak Flow Meter is widely established as an accurate, portable device for the measurement of ventilatory function. It measures the maximum flow rate in a single forced expiration known as the Peak Expiratory Flow (P.E.F.)
The meter provides a simple test for the diagnosis and management of conditions such as Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema. It can also be used to measure the effect of training on athletes.

Suppliers:

               Clement Clarke International Ltd
               Airmed House
               Edinburgh Way
               HARLOW
               Essex
               CM20 2ED

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Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter

Widely used around the world, in years of clinical tests, Mini-Wright PFMs have delivered exceptional and consistent accuracy.
The Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter measures the maximum expiratory flow rate during a forced expiration. The measurement of the effect of physiotherapy and of training on athletes are yet other applications for the Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter.

Suppliers:

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Mini Peak Flow Meter EU Standard

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