Mechanical Ventilation Liberation- One-third of all patients in ICUs require mechanical ventilation support, and timely discontinuation of ventilatory support is critical. Delays in this process can unnecessarily increase a patient’s risk for infection and other complications. Alternatively, premature withdrawal of mechanical ventilation can lead to reintubation, nosocomial pneumonia, and death.Numerous barriers can prevent successful liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. This paper and panel discussion review how to assess a patient readiness for extubation, traditional methods of ventilator discontinuation, the most recent evidence-based practices for as it applies to liberation, and an integrated, interdisciplinary care bundle that addresses common and preventable barriers to successful liberation.
1.5 Free CEUs for Respiratory Therapists
Free course sponsored by grant from GE Healthcare