ICU learning pathway | Weaning from mechanical ventilation

Weaning from Mechanical Ventilation
Session Overview
Description
This session describes the process of weaning from mechanical ventilation, the pathophysiology that affects the success of weaning and the predictors of weaning success and failure. It also describes weaning techniques and the role of tracheostomy and non-invasive ventilation.

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Define the stages of weaning
• Identify the patient who is ready to wean
• Describe the factors that affect weaning success
• List the predictors of weaning success and failure
• Describe the techniques that can be used in the process of weaning

Before commencing this session you should complete:

• Principles of IPPV (001-0064)
• Ventilation - Basic Modes 1 (001-0264)
• Ventilation - Basic Modes 2 (001-0265)
• Clinical Management of Mechanical Ventilation 1 (001-0273)
• Clinical Management of Mechanical Ventilation 2 (001-0274)

Patients within the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) require mechanical ventilatory support for a number of reasons, for example following an emergency laparotomy, a drug overdose or an acute neurological condition.

Weaning is the process of liberating a patient from mechanical ventilation. In the majority of patients this can be done quickly without complications, however, some patients require more time.

As with most interventions within the ICU, mechanical ventilation is associated with a number of complications and so you should aim for the weaning process to be as fast as possible without unnecessary delays.

It is essential that you a have a good understanding of the process for weaning and have a systematic approach to managing patients who are difficult to wean.