Ventilator Weaning
Ventilator weaning/liberation is a complex process that requires focus on a patient’s respiratory mechanics, strength, awareness, airway patency, and secretions while also keeping in mind a patient’s overall clinical status and critical illness. The recommendations in the chapter are based on evidence-based medicine when available. When no clear data can definitively guide patient management, clinical guidelines and accepted practices are described. Our hope is that the reader finds this chapter as a reliable and safe way to approach ventilator liberation. This review contains 4 figures, 6 tables and 77 references Key Words: ABCDE bundle, diaphragm dysfunction, negative inspiratory force, reintubation, RSBI, sedation, spontaneous breathing trial, tracheostomy, ventilator liberation, ventilator weaning