RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Survey of Respiratory Therapists' Attitudes and Concerns Regarding Terminal Extubation JF Respiratory Care FD American Association for Respiratory Care SP 1046 OP 1049 VO 50 IS 8 A1 David C Willms A1 Jodette A Brewer YR 2005 UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/50/8/1046.abstract AB BACKGROUND: There is little published information on the role of respiratory therapists in the process of withdrawal of mechanical ventilatory support. METHODS: We surveyed practicing respiratory therapists at 6 acute-care hospitals in a large urban area and asked about particular concerns and attitudes regarding terminal extubation. RESULTS: One hundred nineteen questionnaires were analyzed. The majority of respiratory therapists had participated in terminal extubation, but most were not regular participants in the decision-making process leading to withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS: Practicing respiratory therapists expressed a desire for a role in the decisionmaking process, education regarding terminal care, and more definitive orders for terminal extubation.