Occurrence of Dysrhythmias During Ventilatory Weaning and Its Association With Length of Mechanical Ventilation and In-hospital Complications.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The occurrence of cardiac dysrhythmias during ventilatory weaning and its impact on the length of ventilation and occurrence of complications have not been systematically investigated. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between cardiac dysrhythmias during weaning and the duration of ventilation and complications during ventilator weaning. METHOD: Data on the length of ventilation and complications were collected from the medical records of 30 mechanically ventilated patients. Continuous electrocardiographic recordings were collected at baseline and during the initial weaning trial. Multiple regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between dysrhythmias and length of ventilation. The relationship between prolonged ventilation and complications was assessed using the χ2 analysis. RESULTS: Supraventricular ectopic beats during weaning positively predicted the length of ventilation (P < .01). Prolonged ventilation (>7 days) is associated with the occurrence of renal insufficiency and septicemia. CONCLUSION: The association between the occurrence of supraventricular ectopic beats during ventilator weaning and the length of ventilation requires further evaluation and tailored management to improve patient outcomes.