Flail chest.

Following standard weaning protocols, including sedation interruptions and spontaneous breathing trials, Mrs. W is successfully weaned from the mechanical ventilator and extubated on day 5 of hospitalization. Mrs. W is also weaned off of the PCA and achieves acceptable pain control with oral analgesic agents. Following education about the importance of nutrition, hydration, deep breathing, and aggressive mobility, she's discharged to a rehabilitation facility on day 8. She remains at this facility for 2 weeks, where she continues to be educated on using analgesics for pain control and mobilizing safely at home.