The Use of Dexamethasone in the Prevention of Postextubation Stridor in Pediatric Patients in PICU/NICU Settings: An Analytical Review

ISSUES AND PURPOSE: Dexamethasone has been used to prevent postextubation stridor in children, but its use is controversial. Five randomized, controlled clinical trials were reviewed to analyze the effectiveness of prophylactic dexamethasone on postextubation stridor in pediatric patients. CONCLUSIONS: Previous studies had inconsistent results. Several factors may contribute to postextubation stridor in pediatric patients. Postextubation stridor and extubation failure do not always result from airway edema. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: In addition to prophylactic dexamethasone, other approaches should be used to prevent postextubation stridor, such as preparing the patient, following established guidelines, and providing appropriate postextubation care.