A STUDY TO ASSESS THE PREDICTORS OF VENTILATOR ASSOCIATED PENUMONIA (VAP) IN ELDERLY PATIENTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background –

Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is defined as the development of pneumonia more than 48 hours after the initiation of Mechanical Ventilation (MV). VAP also results in atelectasis, mechanical ventilator-related lung injury, respiratory tract obstruction, and barotrauma. The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictors influencing the occurrence of Ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) among patients receiving mechanical ventilation at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai.

Methods –

A retrospective study involving 50 patients who were on MV for more than 48 hrs in ICU.

Results –

Majority of the patients were males 64%. The level of CRP was > 8mg/L in 62% of patients. The procalcitonin levels > 0.25ng/mL in 24% of the patients. In our study VAP developed in 16% of them.

CONCLUSION –

Our study investigating the predictors of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) in elderly patients within a tertiary care hospital has provided valuable insights into the factors contributing to this critical healthcare concern. Through rigorous analysis of patient data and clinical parameters, several key predictors have emerged.