Abstract
Introduction: Ventilator-associated pneumonia is defined as pneumonia in that developed within 48 to 72 hours following the application of endotracheal intubation. More than 50% of hospital-acquired pneumonia cases are classified into ventilator-associated pneumonias. Patients usually show systemic signs of infection like hyperthermia, and changes in white blood cells counts. They also show alterations in the characteristics of sputum. The causative agent is usually detected in blood stream.
Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: ventilator associated pneumonia, intensive care unit complication, risk factors for ventilator associated, treatment of ventilator associated pneumonia
Aim: In this review, we aim to study the prevalence, risk factor, and causative organisms for ventilator associated pneumonia. We will also study the treatment of such pneumonia in the intensive care unit.
Conclusion: Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a major complication that occurs to patients on mechanical ventilation and mainly in the intensive care unit. No gold standard is available yet for diagnosing ventilator-associated pneumonia. Recent studies have suggested the use of samples from the lower respiratory tract. The best measurement in ventilator-associated pneumonia is prevention, with avoiding known risk factors. In patients with suspected ventilator-associated pneumonia, early ampere antibiotic treatment is essential, with later transfer to narrow-spectrum antibiotics according to culture findings.