The development and implementation of an evidence-based risk reduction algorithm for post-extubation dysphagia in intensive care

Abstract

Intubation and mechanical ventilation are often required to support critically ill patients. These are life-sustaining measures and when they are no longer necessary, patients need to be carefully transitioned back to breathing, eating, and talking on their own. Post-extubation dysphagia is defined as swallowing difficulty following extubation. This condition can affect up to 87% of critically ill patients and can cause serious health complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which could require re-intubation,