AACN Protocols for Practice: Care of Mechanically Ventilated Patients guides clinicians' practice in the following categories: airway management, modes and methods of mechanical ventilation, weaning, sedation and neuromuscular blockade, nutrition support, and home care management of ventilator-assisted patients. Each protocol guides clinicians in the appropriate selection of patients, use and application of management principles, initial and ongoing monitoring, discontinuation of therapies or interventions, and selected aspects of quality control.