A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has mild persistent asthma. Which of the following is an expected finding? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer:
Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is greater than or equal to 80% of the predicted value.
Rationale:
- Mild persistent asthma is characterized by daytime symptoms more than twice a week but not daily, nighttime symptoms 3–4 times a month, and PEF ≥80% of the predicted value.
- These children may have minor limitations in normal activities. Symptoms are not continuous throughout the day—that would describe severe persistent asthma.
- Understanding these classifications helps guide treatment plans such as inhaled corticosteroids and rescue inhaler use.
