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Decreasing mechanical ventilator support in medically fragile children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia: A step-by-step weaning protocol at a pediatric long term extended care facility.

PURPOSE
Prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in medically fragile children is commonly used in pediatric long term extended care facilities (P-LTEC). Currently, PMV weaning is performed in an unstandardized fashion. Without an official protocol, patients are subjected to delayed weaning, infection, increased mortality, and difficulty obtaining placement at adult group homes. A step-wise approach may help these children wean from PMV effectively.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review of five tracheostomized children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia was conducted.


RESULTS
A 5-step weaning protocol was created using data collected retrospectively. First, pressure control ventilator settings were decreased until rate = 10, fraction of inspired oxygen = 30% and pressure support = 6-10. Second, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was trialed while awake with ventilator at night. Third, CPAP was continued for 24 hours. Fourth, tracheostomy collar (TC) was trialed while awake, with CPAP at night. Lastly, TC was continued for 24 hours. Advancing to Step 2 required the most time, likely secondary to episodic illnesses, with a mean of 31.2 months. The process required 3.2 months to advance to Step 3, 1.6 months to achieve Step 4, and 2.6 months to attain Step 5.


CONCLUSION
Using the data obtained in this case series an official protocol could be created to wean P-LTEC residents from PMV, with reasonable expectations of the process.