Are there gender differences in the use of peak flow meters?

To determine if there are gender differences in correct use of peak flow meters (PFM), third-year doctor of pharmacy students (n==83; 52 females, 31 males) were instructed in a classroom on correct use of a PFM, including demonstrations. Students were then immediately divided into five groups, given a PFM, and assessed for three attempts in private individual sessions. Males had superior performance on the first attempt for total score (p<0.05) and for "inhale fully" (p<0.05). On the second attempt, the total score was not different, but males scored higher on "exhale as fast and as hard as you can" (p<0.05). Controlled gender studies examining use of PFM in adult and pediatric patients with asthma are warranted.