Final answer:
The monitoring of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) with a spirometer is essential for asthma patients to gauge the severity of their condition and adjust treatment accordingly. A drop in PEFR indicates an acute exacerbation of asthma, signifying a need for immediate medical attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
An asthma patient's response to therapy and determination of acute exacerbation is determined by monitoring Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR). PEFR measures how quickly a person can exhale air from the lungs, and it is a critical parameter for asthma management. Monitoring this rate helps in assessing the severity of asthma and the effectiveness of treatment protocols.
PEFR can be measured using a device called a spirometer, which is often used in the diagnosis of restrictive and obstructive lung diseases. In the case of an asthma patient with an acute exacerbation, a decreased PEFR would indicate that the airways are narrowed, leading to resistance and difficulties in breathing. Monitoring and recording PEFR can alert both the patient and the healthcare provider to changes in the condition that may necessitate adjustments in medication or other interventions.