Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Course overview

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a major health concern when caring for critically-ill patients. Although the incidence of VAP has decreased with the implementation of care bundles, VAP continues to pose a high risk of infection in Intensive Care Units and is the main reason for ventilated patients to be administered antibiotic therapy. While VAP is reported to have a low mortality rate, there is significant morbidity and healthcare costs associated with VAP, including prolonged ICU-length and hospital-length of stay. Screening and diagnostic criteria exist to diagnose VAP early in its development. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have established a surveillance strategy (2013) that is a major shift in the VAP diagnosis and treatment model, which focuses on sustained hypoxemia and worsening oxygenation. Ventilator-associated pneumonia diagnosis and treatment continues to evolve. Successful treatment currently includes early diagnosis, immediate initiation of antibiotic therapy, an individualized approach to patient treatment and response to antibiotic medication and to supportive bedside care.