Ventilator-associated Pneumonia

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is pneumonia developing >48 h after endotracheal intubation, presenting with fever, purulent secretions, new infiltrate, and hypoxemia. Treatment: obtain cultures (BAL/ETA); empiric antibiotics covering Pseudomonas/MRSA based on local flora/risk; de-escalate per cultures; shorten course (7-8 days if appropriate); prevent recurrence; ventilator bundle (HOB 30-45 degrees, oral chlorhexidine, subglottic suction, daily sedation interruption, peptic ulcer/DVT prophylaxis); minimize duration of ventilation.

Common Symptoms

Fever; purulent secretions; new infiltrate; hypoxemia; >48h post-intubation

Causes and Pathogenesis

Aspiration of colonized oropharyngeal/gastric contents around endotracheal tube causes nosocomial pneumonia.

Treatment

Cultures; empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics; de-escalate; shorten course; ventilator bundle prevention

Preventive Measures

Ventilator bundle; minimize ventilation duration; oral care.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ICU/Pulmonology/Infectious-disease department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.