Protocol for the development of a guideline on post-extubation respiratory support for mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU.

Abstract

Prophylactic respiratory support for patients after extubation is effective in improving their outcomes and prognosis. However, the optimal post-extubation respiratory support for different populations and disease types of mechanically ventilated patients remains controversial, and there is a lack of detailed, multidisciplinary, evidence-based recommendations for clinical application. This protocol strictly follows the development process outlined in the WHO Handbook for Guideline Development and Guidelines 2.0, as well as the guidelines for the development of relevant methodological standards. Key steps in developing the guideline include: (1) establishing the guideline working groups, (2) defining the scope of guideline application, (3) selecting the priority clinical questions, (4) retrieving and screening evidence, (5) grading the quality of evidence, (6) forming recommendations and (7) conducting an external review. Ethical approval has been granted by Changzhi People's Hospital (2023K023). Findings from this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications. PREPARE-2023CN418.