J Formos Med Assoc
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Factors predicting reintubation after unplanned extubation (UE) are not well established. We prospectively studied the incidence and clinical features of UE and predictive factors for reintubation in medical intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We also validated the scoring system of Listello and Sessler to predict the outcome after UE. ⋯ Pneumonia as the cause of respiratory failure was the most important predicting factor for reintubation after UE. Reintubation after UE may not be necessary, especially in patients with heart disease as the cause of respiratory failure. The scoring system of Listello and Sessler did not accurately predict reintubation after UE in this study.