Prolonged mechanical ventilation in Canadian intensive care units: national survey

What is it about?

This paper describes the prevalence and care practice for patients experiencing prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV), which is defined as ventilation for 21consecutive days and medical stability. The study used a survey for eligible units, with weekly telephone and email reminders for 6 weeks.

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Why is it important?

Our findings showed that 11% of Canadian acute care ventilator capacity was occupied by prolonged mechanical ventilation patients. We also found that most units favored an individualized approach to weaning and mobilization, with a significant variation in weaning methods, protocol availability, access to specialized rehabilitation equipment, psychiatry, communication technology, and discharge follow-up.