The impact of implementing multifaceted interventions on the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia

Abstract

Background Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a frequent hospital acquired infections among intensive care unit patients. The Institute for Healthcare Improvement has suggested a "care bundle" approach for the prevention of VAP. This report describes the effects of implementing this strategy on VAP rates. Methods All mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the intensive care unit between 2008 and 2013 were prospectively followed for VAP development according to the National Healthcare Safety Network criteria. In 2011, a 7-element care bundle was implemented, including head-of-bed elevation 30°-45°, daily sedation vacation and assessment for extubation, peptic ulcer disease prophylaxis, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, oral care with chlorhexidine, endotracheal intubation with in-line suction and subglottic suctioning, and maintenance of endotracheal tube cuff pressure at 20-30 mmHg. The bundle compliance and VAP rates were then followed. Results A total of 3665 patients received mechanical ventilation, and there were 9445 monitored observations for bundle compliance. The total bundle compliance before and after initiation of the VAP team was 90.7% and 94.2%, respectively (P