Patients’ weaning from mechanical ventilation: Complete versus incomplete ventilator bundle implementation

Abstract Aims and objectives To examine the effect of complete versus incomplete ventilator bundle implementation on weaning scores among mechanically ventilated patients. Background Implementation of the elements bundle alone or with other preventive measures is associated with reducing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) rates. Few research studies were conducted nationally and internationally on the ventilator bundle practices and its effect on weaning from mechanical ventilation. Design Quasi-experimental design was utilized in this study. Methods A convenient sample of 60 mechanically ventilated patients including all modes except continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mode were enrolled and then divided randomly into study and control group. The study group included patients for whom all elements of the ventilator bundle were implemented completely by the trained nurses while the control group included patients who received traditional care where ventilator bundle elements were not done completely. Sociodemographic, medical data, ventilator bundle compliance checklist, and Burns' wean Assessment Program (BWAP) checklist were collected and evaluated. Results There was a significant statistical difference between study group and control group regarding the duration of mechanical ventilation and weaning scores. As most of the study group demonstrated shorter duration of the connection to mechanical ventilation when compared to the control group. As well, the study group obtained higher weaning scores than the control group. Conclusion The study group who received complete ventilator bundle practices has got higher weaning scores and shorter duration of the connection to mechanical ventilator than the control group. Relevance to clinical practice implementation of complete ventilator bundle elements together among mechanically ventilated patients by the trained nurses could be effective in accelerating the safe weaning of patients and decreasing the duration of the connection to mechanical ventilation.