Abstract
Background
Respiratory physiotherapists at ASPH assess, monitor and wean patients requiring NIV. In May 2009, as a result of previous NIV audit data, a physiotherapy led weaning proforma was implemented to improve successful weaning rates.
Aims and objectives
The aim of the investigation was to establish if physiotherapy led weaning plans reduced the number of days patients spent on NIV.
Methods
Data were collected prospectively from 255 consecutive patients requiring NIV over a two year period from May 2009 to April 2011 using a locally adapted version of the BTS NIV data collection tool. Number of days on NIV were collected from patients nursing notes. 84 patients had physiotherapy led weaning plans and were included in the analysis (t-test).
Results
33% (n=84) of patients had a physiotherapy led weaning plan. The impact of physiotherapy led weaning plans is summarised.
8% (n=21) patients required referral for domiciliary NIV and therefore could not be weaned and were excluded from the analysis.
Conclusion
Physiotherapy led weaning plans reduce the length of time patients remain on NIV. A possible explanation could be faster optimisation in the first 24 hours facilitating a shortened weaning time. Further investigation is required to establish if earlier physiotherapy input can impact on NIV outcome.
Thanks to Tina Thomas for data entry.
- © 2012 ERS