Description

Drakulovic et al identified risk factors for nosocomial pneumonia in patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the Intensive Care Unit. They found that the supine position favors gastroesophageal reflux and aspiration, especially in patients receiving enteral feedings. The study was done at the University of Barcelona in Spain.


 

Parameter

Finding

Points

position in bed

semirecumbent

0

 

supine

1

enteral feedings

no

0

 

yes

1

duration of mechanical ventilation

< 7 days

0

 

>= 7 days

1

Glasgowcoma score

>= 9

0

 

< 9

1

 

 

Risk Factor

Odds Ratio

95% Confidence Interval

supine position (versus semirecumbent)

6.8

1.7 - 26.7

enteral nutrition

5.7

1.5 - 22.8

duration of mechanical ventilation >= 7 days

10.9

3.0 - 40.4

Glasgowcoma score < 9

 

 

 

risk score =

= SUM(points for the 4 risk factors)

 

Interpretation:

• minimum number of risk factors: 0

• maximum number of risk factors: 4

• The more risk factors present, the greater the risk of nosocomial pneumonia.


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