Providing palliative care for patients receiving mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit Part 2: Withdrawing ventilation

Mechanical ventilation is often withdrawn from patients in expectation of death in intensive care units (ICUs). This process involves close collaboration between families and loved ones, physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other health-care providers. Because withdrawal of ventilation has important symbolic meaning to families and healthcare providers alike, it is a critical aspect of quality end-of-life care. This paper outlines the process of withdrawing both invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation in a hospital setting. We recognise the clinical significance of home ventilation and respiratory support in the setting of chronic critical illness, though will not address this topic here.