Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) — free guideline decision tool
Predict ventilator weaning success with the Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI).
Open guideline tool →Guideline-based
Implements the decision logic from published clinical guidelines.
Runs in your browser
No installation. Enter the patient's values and get a guideline recommendation instantly.
Data stays local
Nothing is uploaded. Results are for licensed clinicians only.
Worked calculation
The values below come from this tool's own example placeholders and are computed server-side with the formula shown on this page, so the arithmetic can be checked quickly. It demonstrates how to substitute values only — it is not clinical advice and not a real case.
| Respiratory rate (f) | 22 /min |
|---|---|
| Tidal volume (Vt) | 400 mL |
→RSBI55breaths/min/L
- RSBI：22 ÷ 0.4 L = 55 breaths/min/L (< 65: high weaning readiness)
- Action：High likelihood of successful weaning; with the overall picture (oxygenation, airway protection, mentation, hemodynamics) proceed to a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT)/extubation
- Note：RSBI = f / Vt (L); best measured during spontaneous breathing (no support, ~ 1 min) or after SBT. Sensitive but less specific (< 105 predicting success outperforms > 105 predicting failure); reflects only rate/volume, not inspiratory effort
Common questions
What is Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI)?
Predict ventilator weaning success with the Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI).
How is Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) calculated? What is the core formula?
RSBI = respiratory rate ÷ tidal volume (L). < 105 predicts successful weaning/extubation (~ 80%); < 65 high readiness; > 105 high failure risk.
When is Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) used?
Screen readiness for a spontaneous breathing trial and extubation.
What are the key clinical points for Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI)?
Best measured during unsupported spontaneous breathing or after an SBT. More sensitive than specific. Reflects only rate/volume — integrate with the overall picture.
What are the limits and cautions when using Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI)?
For licensed clinicians and clinical researchers. Interpret results with history, investigations and local protocols; not a diagnosis or prescription, and not a substitute for multidisciplinary decision-making or local guidelines.
How is Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) calculated in practice? Can you show a worked example?
Inputs: Respiratory rate (f) 22 /min, Tidal volume (Vt) 400 mL → Result: RSBI 55 breaths/min/L（RSBI: 22 ÷ 0.4 L = 55 breaths/min/L (< 65: high weaning readiness), Action: High likelihood of successful weaning; with the overall picture (oxygenation, airway protection, mentation, hemodynamics) proceed to a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT)/extubation, Note: RSBI = f / Vt (L); best measured during spontaneous breathing (no support, ~ 1 min) or after SBT. Sensitive but less specific (< 105 predicting success outperforms > 105 predicting failure); reflects only rate/volume, not inspiratory effort）
Run Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI) now
Predict ventilator weaning success with the Rapid Shallow Breathing Index (RSBI).
Open guideline tool →For licensed clinicians. Not a substitute for clinical judgement.
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