Optimal Timing of Extubation in Preterm Infants

In neonatal intensive care, endotracheal intubation is usually performed as an urgent or semi-urgent procedure in infants with critical or unstable conditions related to progressive respiratory failure. Extubation is not. Patients undergoing extubation are typically stable, with improved respiratory function. The key elements to facilitating extubation are to recognize improvement in respiratory status, promote weaning of mechanical ventilation, and accurately identify readiness for removal of the endotracheal tube.
Source: Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine - Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Source Type: research