Weaning / Discontinuation of  Mechanical Ventilation

Introduction

Approximately 40% of the time a patient spend on a mechanical ventilator is in the process of weaning. The goal of weaning is extubation / decanulation and removal from positive pressure ventilation. There are numerous methods of weaning patients, and  be in most cases it really makes no difference what method you use. Where the real challenge lies is in the patient who fails to wean.

Learning Objectives

• To learn the what is meant by “weaning” and discontinuation of mechanical ventilation.
• To briefly discuss weaning methods
• To learn criteria for extubation
• To look at the mechanisms behind failure to wean

Please note: these tutorials are for personal study purposes only.  They are not currently peer reviewed, and no responsibility will be taken for mistakes or inaccuracies. Reproduction of information is forbidden. All material is copyrighted by the GasWorks Group.