spontaneous breathing trial (SBT)

Introduction

also see ventilation weaning

Indications

• identify patients for endotracheal extubation

Clinical significance

• success if:
  • ability to tolerate spontaneous breathing trial for 30 minutes
  • respiratory rate < 35/min
  • SaO2 > 90% without arrhythmia, sudden tachycardia, changesin blood pressure, respiratory distress, diaphoresis, or anxiety

Procedure

• patient is placed on a T-tube
  • no positive pressure
    • positive pressure (8-cm H2O) may afford a less taxing breathing trial
  • supplemental oxygen provided
  • trial of 30 minutes to 2 hours
• low-level pressure support ventilation
  • 8 cm H2O without positive end-expiratory pressure
  • advantage of monitoring tidal volume & respiratory rate

* no difference between 2 methods in reintubation or ventilator-free days

More general terms

• clinical procedure

Additional terms

• ventilation weaning