What indicates effective use of salmeterol in asthma management?

The indication of effective use of salmeterol in asthma management is evidenced by the client's daily peak expiratory flow (PEF) measures being 85% above their personal best. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that helps to relax the muscles in the airways and improve airflow, making it an effective maintenance therapy for controlling asthma symptoms over an extended period.

When a patient consistently achieves peak expiratory flow measurements at 85% or more of their personal best, it signifies that their asthma is well-controlled, and they are experiencing fewer restrictions in their airflow. This reflects effective management of their asthma, indicating that salmeterol is contributing positively to their respiratory function and overall asthma control.

In contrast, increased shortness of breath, daily use of a rescue inhaler, and the presence of wheezing suggest that the patient's asthma may not be well managed. These scenarios typically indicate inadequate asthma control and a need for further evaluation or adjustments in the treatment plan. Therefore, the peak expiratory flow measurement is the most reliable indicator of effective salmeterol use in this context.