Description

A pediatric patient in the intensive care unit may be at increased risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia if certain findings are present.


 

Risk factors:

(1) presence of a genetic syndrome (based on chromosomal studies and/or phenotypic features)

(2) primary blood stream infection (BSI, sepsis)

(3) immunodeficiency state

(4) COPD (secondary to chronic lung disease)

(5) gastric aspiration

(6) mechanical ventilation for > 3 days

 

Risk factors related to care:

(1) transportation out of the ICU (to the operating room or radiology)

(2) reintubation

(3) continuous enteral feeding

 

Risk factors related to drug therapy:

(1) previous antibiotic use

(2) immunosuppressive therapy, including corticosteroids

(3) neuromuscular blockade

 


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