Respiratory flow meter and methods of use

摘要

A peak flow monitoring system having a base unit and a flowhead. The flowhead is designed for roll and snap connection to the base unit so as to be easily removable therefrom after use for ease of cleaning and storage. A gasket compressed between the flowhead and a pressure transducer housed in the base unit forms a pneumatic seal between the two when the flowhead is connected to the base unit, providing a minimal dead volume therebetween. Pressure in the flowhead generated by patient exhalation therethrough is measured by the base unit pressure transducer and a microprocessor computes pulmonary function parameter values from the transducer output for storage and display. The base unit display function includes text-based, customizable, reconfigurable patient symptom and medication queries. Methods of system assembly, disassembly and operation are also disclosed.