Mount Carmel Health Partners Clinical Guidelines Asthma | Page 4
Red-Yellow-Green Asthma Tool
The Red-Yellow-Green Asthma Tool is a guide to assist patients or family members in managing their own
asthma. It allows them to know when following up with their physician. The plan is based on “zones” of
asthma that are defined by symptoms and peak expiratory flow rate.
Green Zone means “Good”
The green zone is associated with asthma that is under control.
Peak expiratory flow rate between 80% to 100% of the patient’s personal best measurement.
No symptoms
Able to perform usual daily activities
Continue taking medication as prescribed
The goal is to be in the green zone every day.
Yellow “Caution” Zone
Peak expiratory flow rate between 50% to 80% of the patient’s personal best measurement.
Patient may be asymptomatic or have mild to moderate symptoms that may prevent usual activities:
- coughing
- waking at night
- wheezing,
- chest tightness,
-tachypnea/shortness of breath
Eliminate triggers
Stop strenuous exercise
Rescue medicine should be used.
Medications may need to be increased and warrant a discussion with medical care provider if patient is in
the yellow zone most days.
Red “Alert” Zone
Peak expiratory flow rate less than 50% of the patient’s personal best measurement.
Very short of breath
Usual activities severely limited
Difficulty walking and talking due to shortness of breath
Respiratory effort increased. Accessory respiratory muscle use, retractions, tachypnea.
Acrocyanosis or central cyanosis
Rescue medicine should be used.
Call your physician right away.
Immediate medical evaluation is necessary.
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