Exercise tolerance and simple bedside spirometry or PEFR are useful ways to assess respiratory function.

Care should be taken when interpreting results as they are dependant on the patient using a correct technique.

Spirometry or PEFR can help to assess the reversibility of obstructive airways diseases with bronchodilator treatment and can be a measure over time of improvements in the patient’s condition.

Available in the Downloads section of the Resources page: Respiratory physiology, Update in Anaesthesia, Issue 12 (2000) Anaesthesia for the patient with respiratory disease, Update in Anaesthesia, Issue 12 (2000)