Family member had surgery 3 weeks ago, he is off vent tube but has trach hooked up to vent. he will not breathe on own. can rehab get him to breathe?

Should be the goal: Tracheostomies are used for patients who are expected to be on the ventilator for a prolonged time frame. They are much more comfortable than the endotracheal tubes in the mouth/throat. Breathing independently requires strong respiratory muscles - these require nutrition and exercise, just like all muscles in the body. The rehab team and the respiratory team should work together for that goal.