Weaning the Anxious Ventilator Patient Using Hypnotic Relaxation: Case Reports

Two anxious patients on mechanical ventilators with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were treated with hypnotically induced relaxation during prescribed aerosol “T-piece” weaning trials. Hypnosis was induced by an eye-fixation method, and suggestions of relaxation, well-being, and ventilator independence were given. The patients in this report claimed that before hypnosis, they felt anxious and tightness in the chest. During and after hypnosis, the patients were comfortable and secure breathing off the ventilator, as measured by an anxiety and oximetry scale.