Abstract
Summary Successful weaning from ventilatory support is the ultimate goal for all those involved in the care of mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units. Although this may be a straightforward process for many patients, a significant minority require more complex and time-consuming approaches. At present there are a number of key issues surrounding weaning, such as the causes of weaning failure, the factors that predict weaning success or failure, and the optimal procedural strategies for weaning. Physiotherapists have an established role in the care of mechanically ventilated patients, but their role during weaning is less well documented. This paper reviews the current trends and ideas surrounding weaning adults, and highlights those areas relevant to physiotherapists.
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