title: Case studies in terminal weaning from mechanical ventilation.
abstract: Terminal weaning, withdrawal of mechanical ventilation when the patient is not expected to survive the process, must not be burdensome to the patient or significant others. The healthcare team must individualize the weaning process, considering the physiologic comfort of the patient and the psychoemotional comfort of both the patient and family. The following case studies illustrate variations in a method for terminal weaning that are patient-specific and are based on the experience of a supportive care team.
authors.affiliation: Detroit Receiving Hospital, MI 48201.
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Campbell
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D008176:Lung Volume Measurements; D008297:Male; D016743:Mental Competency; D008875:Middle Aged; D009020:Morphine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D011379:Prognosis; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D015300:Ventilator Weaning / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D028761:Withholding Treatment
chemical_list: D009020:Morphine