Ahmad, a 36-year-old, is brought to your room by his wife Ibtesam.

He is very breathless and is only able to speak in single words.

Ibtesam tells you he has had asthma for years but she has noticed he has been taking his blue puffer more frequently lately, and for the last few hours he has been using it about every 15-20 minutes.

Question 2

After commencing oxygen therapy it is important to measure peak expiratory flow or perform spirometry. Select TRUE or FALSE then click Next >> to view the author's answer.

TRUE FALSE

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Answer 2

The author's answer is: FALSE

The authors disagree with this statement. Ahmad is obviously in respiratory distress, and performing either of these tests now will add to the distress. After all, you know he is asthmatic, and waiting until he is comfortable would seem sensible. As a general rule:

Do not perform lung function tests while the patient is only able to speak in single words