Which of the following statements about weaning from mechanical ventilation is true?
  1. Successful weaning depends on the general condition of the patient.
  2. It is important to persistently train the patient to breathe on their own irrespective of fatigue.
  3. Prolonged periods of breathing at low rates is an ideal strategy of weaning.
  4. Pressure support ventilation helps in early weaning.

Answer: The answer is (a). Successful weaning depends on the status of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.During weaning the level of supported ventilation is decreased gradually. It is important that the weaning process does not fatigue the patient excessively. Pressure support may alleviate fatigue but prolongs the weaning process. Prolonged periods at low rates can promote respiratory fatigue and impair weaning .