A person experiencing a peak expiratory flow rate of less than 60% of their predicted value likely has which severity of asthma?

A peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) of less than 60% of the predicted value indicates a severe reduction in airflow, which is consistent with severe asthma. In patients with asthma, PEFR measurements can help evaluate the severity of the disease and inform management.

According to asthma severity classifications, a PEFR of less than 60% suggests significant airway obstruction and a severe exacerbation of the disease. This level of function indicates that the patient's airways are significantly compromised, leading to increased symptoms, potential respiratory distress, and a higher risk for exacerbations.

In contrast, mild asthma typically maintains PEFR values above 80% of the predicted rate, indicating that the patient's condition is more manageable and not experiencing severe airflow limitations. Moderate asthma would generally show PEFR values between 60% and 80%, reflecting a moderate degree of airway obstruction but not as severe as seen in this case. Intermittent asthma shows normal peak flow rates with occasional symptoms but is not associated with the significant reductions in airflow measured here.

Overall, the severity classification based on PEFR is critical in guiding treatment and interventions, underlining the importance of recognizing when a patient's asthma is severe and likely requiring more aggressive management.