Medicine
Extubation Readiness Testing in Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Quick fact
The spontaneous breathing trial is so predictive that patients who pass it still have about a 10-20% chance of needing to be reintubated within 48 hours.
Why this is interesting
Imagine being told you can finally try to breathe on your own, but only if a set of tests says you're ready. How do doctors know you won't fail the moment the breathing tube is removed?