Table 1

Variables that suggest readiness for spontaneous breathing trials

Resolution of acute phase of disease
Intact airway reflexes
Cardiovascular stability (no need for continuous vasopressors)
Afebrile
PaO2/FiO2 ≥ 150 mmHg
PEEP ≥ 5 cmH2O

FiO2, fraction of inspired oxygen; PaO2, partial pressure of arterial oxygen; PEEP, positive end expiratory pressure.

El-Khatib and Bou-Khalil Critical Care 2008 12:221   doi:10.1186/cc6959