Weaning is a process of gradual discontinuation from ventilatory support. It is necessary to wean the patients from mechanical ventilation as early as possible. Delay in weaning can cause ventilator associated infection and diaphragmatic atrophy. There are various weaning indexes, readiness screening test available for the critically ill patients. A new index named Integrative weaning index (IWI) is being used recently by most of the clinicians and has found to be successful. The principle of IWI is to integrate the three important components of breathing in a single equation which includes respiratory mechanics, oxygenation and breathing pattern.
Key words: Integrative weaning index, Mechanical ventilation, Oxygenation, Weaning
|
