The appropriate discontinuation of mechanical ventilation decreases the patients risk for ventilator acquire pneumonia and other complications of increasing length of stay in the hospital. This protocol utilizes the expertise of the Respiratory Therapist and the patient s nurse as a constant assessment of the toleration of the wean process. The information from these caregivers assists the physician in directing the patient s course of care. Unless the physician orders alternative patient-specific parameters. If the patient meets these criteria following 2 hours weaning the trial is considered successful.
Patient meets the above criteria as a successful wean candidate.
Daily a Rapid Shallow Breathing Index is performed on Weaning patients. If Extubation Trial is successful Recommend Extubation 4. PSV Wean Protocol 5. If unsuccessful after three trials, rest patient until the next day. Contact physician to notify of failure to wean.