Effectiveness of a VAP Prevention Bundle in the PICU

Effectiveness of a Bundle of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) Prevention in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): an Observational Study

This observational monocentric prospective study aims to evaluate the efficacy of new measures for ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) management in the pediatric population in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli of 8 beds. The investigators will compare the incidence of VAP in the group of patients in which this protocol has been implemented to a retrospective control group of patients before the new protocol implementation. VAP bundle includes oral care hygiene measures (i.e chlorhexidine swab), to keep clean and dry ventilator circuits and head positioning at 45 degrees.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age < 18 years
• patients receiving mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

• no informed consent
• pregnancy
• previous endotracheal antibiotic therapy