NTI - Reducing Ventilator Associated Pneumonia: Halyard Interview

NTI in Houston provided AN with so many opportunities to interview leaders in the field of nursing as well as to view demonstrations of new products. Halyard representatives discussed oral care to reduce ventilator-acquired pneumonia (VAP).

Why is this so important? From the Society of Critical Care Medicine, "The role of oral hygiene in maintaining the health and well-being of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) is indisputable. Oral care is a simple and effective strategy to reduce ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in patients requiring mechanical ventilation. Colonization of the aerodigestive tract and aspiration of contaminated secretions into the lower airway are the two primary pathogenic processes of endemic VAP. Dental plaque can be a major reservoir of infection by respiratory pathogens in ICU patients.Pharmacological plaque control with chlorhexidine oral rinse is effective and also decreases oropharyngeal colonization by aerobic pathogens in ventilated patients."

Oral care for vented patients is always a concern and can be difficult and time-consuming. However, Halyard recently introduced a product that is specifically for patients with smaller mouths who need oral care. These self-contained kits include a self-cleaning Yankauer, a #8fr suction catheter and a small toothbrush. Here are some of the features:

• Color-coded packaging, allowing caregivers to easily identify specific component packs and to track oral care compliance
• Rectangular kit design with wall hanger, making it more conveniently accessible in the patient's room to make compliance easier
• Individual packs that allow caregivers to choose the right tool at the right time, based on patient need and hospital protocol
• Color-coded "Order of Use" guide, printed directly on the kit, takes the guess work out of oral care by providing easy identification of component packs and promoting proper continuity of care according to protocol. Available in q2 and q4 Kits

Providing oral care to our ventilated patients prevents ventilator-acquired pneumonia (VAP), thus reducing ICU time, hospital length of stay and improves patient outcomes. By using evidence-based practices, we can meet the compliancy standards as well and most importantly, ensure our patients' comfort.