Nursing care of patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a hospital-acquired infection with serious consequences, causing harm to patients, their families, and the hospital. When VAP occurs, it leads to increased medication use, higher costs, and, in some cases, the development of drug-resistant bacteria. This can result in prolonged hospital stays and a higher risk of mortality.
Objective: To study and compare the nursing care provided to two patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Methods: Nursing care for two patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia was studied. Data were collected from medical records, and relatives were interviewed using Gordon's 11 health patterns. Nursing diagnoses were formulated based on the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA) guidelines. Nursing care was provided, and outcomes were assessed in three phases: the critical phase, the rehabilitation phase, and the discharge planning phase.
Results: Nursing care was provided for two case studies of patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The first case involved a patient with acute gastroenteritis, sepsis, and acute respiratory failure, while the second case involved a patient with pneumonia and acute respiratory failure. Both patients were initially treated in the respiratory care unit at Trang Hospital. During the critical phase, they were transferred to the intensive care unit for respiratory management. Sputum cultures revealed the presence of Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB MDR). Following the nursing protocols established by the Infection Control and Prevention Nursing Division and completing the planned antibiotic treatment, both patients showed progressive improvement. The first patient was discharged by the physician, while the second patient, who had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), required ongoing oxygen therapy and was referred to a community hospital for continued care.
Keywords : ventilator-associated pneumonia, critically ill patient.
