- Poster presentation
- Open Access
Rapid shallow breathing index – a key predictor for noninvasive ventilation
- Published: 22 March 2007
Keywords
- Emergency Department
- Tidal Volume
- Ventilatory Support
- Prospective Randomized Study
- Baseline Demographic
Introduction
The rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) is the ratio determined by the frequency (f) divided by the tidal volume (VT). An RSBI <105 has been widely accepted by healthcare professionals as a criteria for weaning to extubation and has been integrated into most mechanical ventilation weaning protocols. We hypothesized that the converse of using the RSBI for weaning might be useful in predicting the need for noninvasive ventilation. Advancements in technology have made it easier to accurately attain bedside RSBI measurements. The purpose of this study was to ascertain a threshold value of RSBI that could predict the need for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress to the critical care area (Cat 1) in the emergency department.
Methods
Figure 1
Results
Figure 2
Conclusion
A RSBI of 120 or greater, as reflected by f/VT ratio, may be a predictor of when NIV support should be considered. Further prospective randomized studies are needed to validate the value of 120.