Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia(VAP)
by
Alexandra Howson, PhD DefinitionVentilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is an infection of the lungs. It affects people who are on mechanical ventilation. Most who need ventilation are very ill and in a care setting. Pneumonia affects the small airways and air sacs in the lungs. It can make it difficult for oxygen to pass into the body.
CausesVAP is commonly caused by specific bacteria. Mechanical ventilation can increase the risk of pneumonia. The tube that is needed in the throat makes it easier for bacteria to get deep into the lungs. Risk FactorsFactors that may increase the chances of VAP:
SymptomsVAP may cause:
DiagnosisThe doctor will review symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment depends on which bacteria are causing the pneumonia. Treatment options include:
PreventionTo help reduce the chances of VAP, the care team will:
RESOURCES:American Lung Association http://www.lung.org American Thoracic Society http://www.thoracic.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Public Health Agency of Canada https://www.canada.ca The Lung Association http://www.lung.ca References:Koenig SM, Truwit JD. Ventilator-associated pneumonia: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Clin Microbio Rev. 2006;19(4):637-657. Ventilator-associated pneumonia. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/HAI/vap/vap.html. Updated May 17, 2012. Accessed January 11, 2019.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Updated October 25, 2018. Accessed January 11, 2019.
Last reviewed January 2019 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Monica Zangwill, MD, MPH Last Updated: 1/8/2019 |
|
EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation. This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days. |