Prolonged mechanical ventilation in Swedish intensive care units: patient characteristics, prevalence, weaning and challenges in care

Abstract: The overall aim of this thesis was to explore the care of adult patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in Swedish intensive care units (ICUs). Secondary aims were to identify the prevalence, characteristics and outcome in patients with PMV and the presence of person-centred care (PCC) during prolonged weaning in Swedish ICUs. Study I. Registry study identifying adult admissions to Swedish ICUs requiring mechanical ventilation ≥ 7 days. Admissions on PMV > 21 days constituted a small proportion of all admissions but occupied a significant part of ICU capacity. Use of ICU bed days and ICU mortality was lower compared to international studies. Study II. Survey of adult Swedish ICUs (n = 77) identifying care practices and protocols for adult patients undergoing mechanical ventilation > 7 days. Results showed low levels of weaning and mobilisation protocols, individualised approaches were preferred and interprofessional decisions were common. Few ICUs promoted primary nursing models or PCC approaches. Study III. Qualitative interview study exploring critical care nurses’ approach for management of patients during prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation. Results showed that critical care nurses played a key role in prioritising, initiating and driving the weaning process. Study IV. Secondary analysis of qualitative interviews identifying the presence of PCC during prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation. Results showed evidence of PCC undertaken during prolonged weaning, but also barriers such as a lack of team collaboration and staff resources. In conclusion, patients on PMV in Swedish ICUs comprised a relatively small proportion of ICU admissions but consumed a significant part of ICU capacity. Individualised approaches were preferred, and interprofessional collaboration was common. ICUs showed low level of care practices based on PCC, but PCC was present during prolonged weaning. Critical care nurses in the ICU played a key role in individualising care and increasing patient participation during prolonged weaning.