Hazards of water

Ventilator-associated pneumonia is the most common nosocomial infection. Mortality rates, morbidity, and costs are all increased in the patient with VAP, and every measure should thus be taken to prevent its development. There are several clearly defined risk factors for VAP, and awareness of these can facilitate early diagnosis and hence treatment. In this article, we will discuss the risk factors, strategies for prevention, approaches to diagnosis, and management plan for the patient with VAP. © 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd. on behalf of The Hospital Infection Society.