[Ventilator-associated pneumonia]

Abstract

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a severe, not entirely preventable complication of invasive ventilation. Timely and adequate antibiotic treatment is important; therefore, intensivists often initiate broad spectrum antibiotic regimens upon clinical suspicion of VAP. Criteria for the diagnosis of VAP are not perfect and a clear distinction of VAP from ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis is not always possible due to the limitations of chest x-rays in ventilated patients. The attributable mortality of VAP is likely overestimated. All these aspects increase the need to reevaluate the diagnosis of VAP on a daily basis. Microbiology data are helpful in the decision to de-escalate or stop antibiotics. The prudent use of antibiotics and implementation of a number of preventive measures are key for management of VAP in ICUs. These steps will help to minimize the development of multidrug-resistant pathogens and, in turn, may help guarantee more antibiotic options for future patients.