PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - David C Willms AU - Jodette A Brewer TI - Survey of Respiratory Therapists' Attitudes and Concerns Regarding Terminal Extubation DP - 2005 Aug 01 TA - Respiratory Care PG - 1046--1049 VI - 50 IP - 8 4099 - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/50/8/1046.short 4100 - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/50/8/1046.full 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.