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Survey of respiratory therapists' attitudes and concerns regarding terminal extubation
David C Willms1, Jodette A Brewer
1Pulmonary Center, Sharp Memorial Hospital, 7901 Frost Street, San Diego CA 92123, USA. david.willms@sharp.com
Background:
There is little published information on the role of respiratory therapists in the process of withdrawal of mechanical ventilatory support.
Methods:
We surveyed practicing respiratory therapists at 6 acute-care hospitals in a large urban area and asked about particular concerns and attitudes regarding terminal extubation.
Results:
One hundred nineteen questionnaires were analyzed. The majority of respiratory therapists had participated in terminal extubation, but most were not regular participants in the decision-making process leading to withdrawal.
Conclusions:
Practicing respiratory therapists expressed a desire for a role in the decision-making process, education regarding terminal care, and more definitive orders for terminal extubation.
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