IMPACT OF RESPIRATORY PHYSIOTHERAPY ON WEANING FROM MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Abstract

Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is a resource used in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) to provide ventilatory support for critically ill children. However, its prolonged use can lead to complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), atelectasis, and extubation failure. Respiratory therapy plays an essential role in the weaning process, contributing to reduced ventilation time and improved clinical outcomes. This study, through an integrative review, analyzed the impact of respiratory therapy on weaning from mechanical ventilation in pediatric patients admitted to the PICU. The methodology was based on a selection of articles published between 2019 and 2025, available in national and international scientific databases such as LILACS, Scielo, Medline, and PubMed. The results indicate that respiratory therapy, combined with early mobilization protocols, bronchial hygiene techniques, and respiratory muscle strengthening, promotes a higher extubation success rate and a lower incidence of complications. Therefore, respiratory therapy is an important strategy for pediatric rehabilitation in intensive care settings.