Nurses can implement several evidence-based strategies to prevent VAP:
1. Hand Hygiene: Regular and thorough hand washing before and after patient contact. 2. Oral Care: Providing routine oral care with antiseptic solutions. 3. Elevating the Head of the Bed: Maintaining the head of the bed at an angle of 30-45 degrees to prevent aspiration. 4. Subglottic Suctioning: Using endotracheal tubes with subglottic secretion drainage. 5. Sedation Management: Minimizing the use of sedatives and conducting daily sedation vacations. 6. Ventilator Circuit Management: Avoiding unnecessary changes of the ventilator circuit.
