Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation in the Intensive Care Unit: A Prospective Observational Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Over 1 in 5 Americans die in intensive care units (ICUs), among whom 50% undergo palliative withdrawal of mechanical ventilation (WMV). Little is known about their experience or best practices to minimize their suffering.

Research question

To describe and identify factors associated with patient distress post-WMV.

Study design and methods

Observational study of Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation (OBSERVE-WMV) is a prospective cohort study conducted from January 2021 to July 2022 in 12-ICUs at two academic medical centers among mechanically ventilated intubated patients transitioning to comfort-focused care via WMV. The cumulative incidence of experiencing distressful episodes from either observed respiratory distress (Respiratory distress observation scor

SUBMITTER: Fehnel CR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12662747 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature