How to Wean The Elderly From Artificial Ventilation

There are times when it is medically necessary to place an elderly patient on artificial ventilation for a period of time. This is typically done when the patient is suffering from influenza, pneumonia or other respiratory illnesses. However, when the patient has recovered, it becomes necessary to wean him off artificial ventilation. It is done so the patient will not become entirely dependent on external support to breathe.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if the patient is at a point in recovery to begin weaning her off artificial ventilation. Have her physician make that determination before taking any further steps in the weaning process. This could take more than one consultation with the physician, so patience must be exercised during this period of time. In the meantime, keep the patient as comfortable as possible.

• 2

  Set a schedule with the patient as to how he will be slowly weaned off artificial ventilation. The physician will have a specific time frame in mind as to when this should be accomplished. Ask any questions necessary to clarify this process. Be sure that you understand what your role, if any, will be in this process.

• 3

  Gradually wean the patient off artificial ventilation. It is important to stick with the schedule set up by the patient's physician to help with this process. Carefully monitor the condition of the patient while they are off the ventilator to make sure there are no issues arising from this process. It is also important the patient be carefully monitored by her physician to make sure there are no side effects from being weaned off artificial respiration.

• 4

  Encourage the patient to engage in some type of physical activity to build up his strength during the weaning process. This will help the patient wean off the artificial ventilator faster, making him stronger for regular activity. Exercise will also build up the patient's resistance to other bacteria, decreasing the likelihood of him getting sick again.