Comparison of Ventilator Versus Traditional Measurement Methods of Rapid Shallow Breathing Index for Predicting Extubation Success

The Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) (respiratory rate f / tidal volume VT) is a crucial indicator for predicting whether a patient can successfully wean off mechanical ventilation. This study aims to explore the clinical value of measuring RSBI using different methods in predicting successful extubation. Study Methods: A prospective study was conducted in the medical and surgical intensive care units of a teaching hospital. Data were collected from patients who required intubation and mechanical ventilation due to respiratory failure from August 2024 to July 2026. The RSBI measured under different ventilator settings was compared with the traditional standard hand-held Wright spirometer measurement. The ventilator measurement methods were divided into three categories: PSV 5 cmH2O with PEEP 5 cmH2O, CPAP 5 cmH2O, and CPAP 0 cmH2O. The study analyzed the differences in RSBI measurements obtained by these methods and their ability to predict successful extubation, as well as other related factors, including the influence of different ventilator models, ventilation modes, and parameter settings on RSBI values. RSBI can vary across different patient populations and measurement methods. This study aims to validate the RSBI displayed by ventilators against the traditional standard measurement, providing a reliable predictive capability for successful extubation. Furthermore, it seeks to facilitate clinical application and assist healthcare providers in determining the appropriate timing for extubation, reducing unnecessary prolonged use or premature removal of mechanical ventilation, and thereby lowering the incidence of complications and healthcare costs.