Ventilator-associated pneumonia in ICU. Clinical overview

Abstract

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a serious nosocomial infection that significantly impacts intensive care unit (ICU) patients. This review explores the etiology, pathogenesis, prophylactic measures, demographics, mortality rates, and the economic burden of VAP. Ventilator-associated pneumonia significantly increases ICU mortality, with rates ranging between 20–50%. It imposes a substantial financial burden on healthcare systems. Diagnosis of VAP involves clinical, microbiological, and radiological criteria. The treatment of VAP typically involves prompt initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are later adjusted based on culture and sensitivity results. Multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogen prevalence remains a challenge, with approximately 30–50% of VAP cases involving resistant strains. The purpose of this study is to assess, monitor, and study the frequency of ventilator-associated pneumonia in the ICU at St. Marina University Hospital for a one-year period and to establish a correlation and examine factors such as main diagnosis, duration of mechanical ventilation, comorbidity, etiology, mortality. Ventilator-associated pneumonia remains a major challenge in ICU settings, leading to high morbidity, mortality, and economic costs. Implementing strict preventive strategies and early detection protocols can significantly reduce its impact.