What Researchers Did
Researchers compared peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements from peak flow meters and a volumetric spirometer in seven healthy subjects under varying hyperbaric conditions to assess their accuracy at increased pressure.
What They Found
The spirometer showed a progressive and significant decline in PEF with increasing pressure, measuring 69.46% of baseline at 303 kPa compared to 101 kPa. Conversely, both standard and mini peak flow meters progressively increased their readings, showing an increase of 7.86% at 303 kPa.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was not conducted in Canada or by Canadian researchers.
Study Limitations
A limitation of this study is its small sample size of seven normal subjects, which may not fully represent patients with pre-existing airway obstruction.