Incidence and outcome of ventilator associated pneumonia.

BACKGROUND: Ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the commonest infection acquired in intensive care unit. VAP is associated with increased patients mortality and morbidity. Many cases of VAP may be prevented by simple preventive strategies.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To note the incidence and outcome of patients with VAP.

METHOD AND MATERIAL: Total 203 Patients, admitted over the period of 6 months from 1st July 2010 to 31st December 2010, requiring mechanical ventilator were studied. Disease profile and demography of the patients were studied. Ventilator associated complications were noted by treating intensivists. Mini brochoalveolar lavage were sent for culture and sensitivity testing. Incidence of VAP in patients with ALI (Acute lung injury) and ARDS (acute respiratory distress Syndrome) and without ALI and ARDS were noted. We also noted the incidence of other common complications like barotraumas and deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism.

RESULTS: A total of 203 patients were studied. Undifferentiated fever was the commonest diagnosis followed by malaria in our patients. 49 patients required mechanical ventilation for acute lung injury and 110 patients required for acute respiratory distress syndrome due to variety of etiologies. VAP developed in 19 of total patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Careful monitoring, MiniBAL sample surveillance and implementation of VAP bundles are important in preventing and for early diagnosis of complications of mechanical ventilators. Non Invasive Ventilation is associated with far less complications as compared to invasive ventilators.