Ventilator-associated pneumonia: updates of pathogenesis, incidence, prevention strategies

Abstract

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the most commonly encountered hospital-acquired infections in intensive care units and is associated with significant morbidity and high costs of care. The pathophysiology, epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of VAP have been extensively studied for decades, but a clear prevention strategy has not yet emerged. In this article, we will review pathogenesis, incidence, and prevention strategies with focus on teaching programme to prevent the disease.