Kidz-med Whistle Watch FAQ's
Q: What is asthma?
Asthma is an inflammation of the airways resulting in the narrowing of the airways.
Q: How is asthma managed?
A: To enjoy a good qualify of life, the asthmatic needs:
- Education on asthma and on what worsens symptoms
- Treatment, depending on the severity of symptoms
- Monitoring
Q: What is peak flow?
A: Peak flow refers to the maximum rate at which you can force air out of your lungs, and it is this rate that is measured when you breathe into a peak flow meter. Once the peak flow drops it may be indicative of increased airway resistance, which may lead to an asthma attack.
Each person has their own “best possible” peak flow measurement, which when achieved means that you should have no asthma symptoms. This is commonly known as PEFR, or Peak Efficiency Flow Rate.
Q: Why is it important to measure peak flow?
A: Just as diabetics need to monitor their blood sugar levels, asthmatics need to monitor their lung functions. Keeping a daily record of the peak flow measurements will help you to:
- Achieve “best possible” control of your child’s asthma (e.g. No symptoms)
- Monitor if his/her medicine is working
- Monitor if your child’s asthma is improving or worsening
By measuring your child’s peak flow, you become more actively involved in the management of your child’s asthma.
Q: What is the “range” of the Whistle Watch?
A: 130-340 liters/minute-absolute.
Q: What is the accuracy of the Whistle Watch?
A: ±10%
Q: How does Whistle Watch work?
A: The Whistle Watch is a peak flow meter that has been designed to enable asthmatic children to check their respiratory status. When set to 80% of the patients best PEFR (Peak efficiency Flow Rate) by a doctor or clinician, the whistle will be activated when the PEFR is reached.
Q: How do I know what my PEF is?
A: This is best determined by a doctor or healthcare provider using a lung function apparatus if available. If not, a table of guideline settings is available in the “instructions for use”.
Q: How do I “read” the Whistle Watch?
A: You do not take a reading when you use the Whistle Watch, and no special assessment or training is needed. Your childs’ ability to produce the whistle sound indicated that his/her asthma is under control.
Q: How often should my child use the Whistle Watch?
A: Use the monitor in the morning and evening. (Your doctor may also advise you to use the monitor at other times. (For example, after you have taken your medicine or before or after exercise).
Q: What if my child can’t make Whistle Watch “whistle”?
A: If your child cannot produce a whistle sound when he/she blows into the Whistle Watch, contact your doctor or healthcare worker. Your child’s asthma may be worsening or your child’s medicine may not be working properly.
Q: How long does the Whistle Watch last?
A: The Whistle Watch should be replaced at least every 6 months, as the child grows. The product is guaranteed for material and/or workmanship defects during this period.
Q: Can the Whistle Watch be cleaned?
A: Yes, you can wash it in soapy, lukewarm water. Do not take the monitor apart when you wash it. Make sure that it is completely dry before you use it again; if wet, it will not work properly.
Q: Is Whistle Watch reimbursable by my insurance?
A: When purchased by doctor’s prescription, this product is reimbursable as a hand-held peak flow meter (reimbursement code # A4614)
Q: How old does my child need to be to use Whistle Watch?
A: Generally, a child is old enough if they are able to make a whistle. Guidelines for PEFR settings go up to approximately 64” of height or a PEFR of 427; after that, an adult version of the device, called Respalert, is available.
