Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026

Effects of Surgical Masks on Cardiopulmonary Function in Healthy Subjects
Published on: February 12, 2021
Are there gender differences in the use of peak flow meters?
C C Chafin1, E Tolley, C George
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tennessee, Memphis 38163, USA.
Abstract:
To determine if there are gender differences in correct use of peak flow meters (PEM), third-year doctor of pharmacy students (n = 83; 52 females, 31 males) were instructed in a classroom on correct use of a PFM, including demonstrations. Students were then immediately divided into five groups, given a PFM, and assessed for three attempts in private individual sessions. Males had superior performance on the first attempt for total score (p < 0.05) and for "inhale fully" (p < 0.05). On the second attempt, the total score was not different, but males scored higher on "exhale as fast and as hard as you can" (p < 0.05). Controlled gender studies examining use of PFM in adult and pediatric patients with asthma are warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Respiratory Volumes
Tidal Volume (TV) Tidal volume (TV) is the air inhaled or exhaled in a...
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests are crucial diagnostic tools for assessing respiratory function, particularly in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. They comprehensively evaluate lung volumes, ventilatory function, breathing mechanics, diffusion, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose pulmonary diseases and play a significant role in monitoring disease progression, evaluating disability, and assessing response to therapy.
PFTs involve using a spirometer, a...
Inhaled Medications
Pipe Flowrate Measurement
The orifice meter is a simple,...
Urodynamic Studies: Uroflowmetry

