Implementation of inspiratory muscle training to wean off from mechanical ventilation in ICU

Aims: Mechanical ventilation (MV) is an usual care inintensive care units (ICU) to treat acute respiratory failure but has for adverse event an alteration of diaphragmatic structure and function. Diaphragmatic dysfunction is characterized by respiratory muscles weakness and prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation. Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) improves diaphragmatic strength. It is recommended by ERS/ESICM statement, feasible, safe and can facilitate ventilator weaning. We sought to describe care practices regarding IMT in french ICU. Material and Method: We provided a phone survey questionnaire in all the 294 ICUs identified in France. Results: 246 responded (83.7%).Therapists stated that they used IMT were 38.2% [95% CI, 32.4 to 44.4]. They used IMT in patients who failed to wean off from MV (35.1% [95% CI, 26.2 to 45.2]) and significantly more in non-sedated patients (p Conclusion: IMT is slightly used in french ICU despite recommendations and results from clinical studies. Most of practices are not evidence-based. Developing strategies is required to implement evidence based techniques to wean off from MV.