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Weaning - Learning to breathe again

Weaning is the name given to weaning therapy for patients who have been ventilated for a long time from the ventilator so that they can breathe independently again. The certified Weaning Centre of the German Society for Pneumology and Respiratory Medicine (DGP) at the Helios Hospital Krefeld offers a comprehensive concept.

If patients are dependent on artificial respiration after major operations or longer illnesses, or have problems with weaning off respiration, we help to build up the muscles carefully so that they can gradually take over the work of breathing again. Our certified weaning unit in the Lung Centre has eleven beds and is closely linked to the conservative intensive care unit.

 The logo of the weaning unit

One team - one goal

A specialised team of pneumologists, intensive care physicians, neurologists, respiratory- and physiotherapists, speech therapists and intensive care nurses ensure the therapeutic care of long-term ventilated patients in a three-shift system. As soon as the patient is successfully weaned from the ventilator or can be ventilated at home, our lung team is supplemented by psychologists and social workers in order to optimally prepare the transfer to the home environment. A separate ward is available for continued (prolonged) weaning therapy („Lebensluft“ ward).

Medical equipment and premises

Equipment monitoring is carried out via haemodynamic-respiratory monitoring in the intensive care unit. In the event of a possible deterioration, all medical options are available, including cardiological intervention or extracorporeal procedures. Meanwhile the rooms - each equipped with TV, radio and telephone - offer a personal atmosphere. All-day visits encourage the involvement of relatives, who often play a decisive role in the success of treatment.

Respiratory therapy centre

Our Weaning Unit also assists patients with chronic illnesses in all aspects of home respiration. Chronic respiratory dysfunction can be caused by a variety of different diseases. These usually include chronic bronchitis, COPD and emphysema (over-inflated lungs), but also diseases of the respiratory muscles. With the available personnel and equipment resources, we guarantee adequate diagnostics, treatment and supply of aids. In order to ensure the best possible transfer of ventilated patients to outpatient care, we cooperate closely with the outpatient care services specialising in respiratory care.