Ventilator Associated Pneumonia and Its Prevention: A Survey on Physiotherapists

Abstract

Ventilator-acquired pneumonia (VAP) is the most common hospital-acquired infection among patients who receive mechanical ventilation for longer than 48 hours in the intensive care unit (ICU). VAP is associated with increases in morbidity and mortality, hospital length of stay and costs. Hence, there is also need to determine the knowledge and awareness of physiotherapist about VAP. This study was done to determine the awareness, attitude and knowledge of VAP among physiotherapist working in different hospitals in Maharashtra. This survey study was conducted using a pre-validated multiple choice questionnaire was developed for 500 physiotherapists to evaluate knowledge of VAP and its prevention. Physiotherapists not willing to participate were excluded. 373 (74.6%) responded to the survey, 64.07% of the respondents knew that VAP occurs after 48 hours of endotracheal intubation. 66.3% had average knowledge about the etiology and prevalence of VAP, 57.9% recognized the importance of semi recumbent position for prevention of VAP. 46.3% respondents had a fair knowledge about the use of physiotherapy in prevention of VAP. The results of this study can be used to focus on educational programs on prevention of VAP. Knowledge alone cannot be considered for prevention of VAP but practice along with it is recommended.