Which factor is not considered when determining peak expiratory flow (PEF)?

When determining peak expiratory flow (PEF), the primary factors that are considered include age, gender, and height. These parameters are essential because they help establish normal reference values for an individual based on their demographics.

Age is important as lung function naturally varies with age; children's PEF values are different from those of adults. Gender also plays a role since men typically have larger lung capacities compared to women, which can influence PEF readings. Additionally, height is significant because it correlates with lung size; taller individuals generally have a higher PEF due to greater lung volume.

Weight, on the other hand, is not a direct factor in determining PEF. While it can have an indirect influence on overall health and respiratory function in certain conditions, it is not typically accounted for in standard PEF assessments. Thus, the other three factors—age, gender, and height—are all essential to accurately interpret PEF values, while weight does not fit into the standard criteria used for this measurement.