Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026

Inspiratory Muscle Training as an Adjunct to the Treatment of Weaning Failure in Critically Ill Patients: A Practical Guide
Published on: January 30, 2026
Respiratory controversies in the critical care setting. Should weaning protocols be used with all patients who
Robert L Chatburn1, Steven Deem
1Respiratory Therapy, M-56, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. chatbur@ccf.org
Ventilator weaning protocols have the potential to expedite the weaning process and have been shown to reduce weaning time and the duration of mechanical ventilation in several studies. However, other studies have found no benefits from weaning protocols, and they may be particularly superfluous in highly staffed and structured intensive care units. Furthermore, for a protocol to improve outcomes, the clinicians must have a high rate of adherence to the protocol. Weaning protocols might improve patient care and outcomes, but their implementation should be based on local clinical characteristics and needs, and accompanied by an intensive education effort and measurement of adherence and outcomes.
Ventilator weaning protocols have the potential to expedite the weaning process and have been shown to reduce weaning time and the duration of mechanical ventilation in several studies. However, other studies have found no benefits from weaning protocols, and they may be particularly superfluous in highly staffed and structured intensive care units. Furthermore, for a protocol to improve outcomes, the clinicians must have a high rate of adherence to the protocol. Weaning protocols might improve patient care and outcomes, but their implementation should be based on local clinical characteristics and needs, and accompanied by an intensive education effort and measurement of adherence and outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Endotracheal Tube Extubation
Procedure
Extubation removes the endotracheal tube (ETT) from the patient on mechanical ventilation. It requires a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
Tracheostomy Decannulation
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
