ENHANCING VENTILATOR-ASSOCIATED PNEUMONIA PREVENTION BUNDLE COMPLIANCE: AN EVIDENCE-BASED INTERVENTION

Abstract

Background: Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is a significant healthcare- associated infection in intensive care units (ICUs), leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Adherence to evidence-based VAP prevention strategies, particularly by nursing staff, plays a crucial role in reducing its incidence. 

Objectives: This study evaluates the knowledge of nurses in preventing VAP in ICU settings by assessing their adherence to VAP care bundle practices before and after an educational intervention.

Methodology: A quasi-experimental pre- and post-intervention study was conducted at Rawal General and Dental Hospital and Holy Family Hospital. A total of 63 registered nurses participated. The intervention consisted of structured training sessions focusing on VAP prevention strategies. Data on nurses’ knowledge and adherence to VAP care bundle practices were collected using structured questionnaires and checklists before and after the intervention. Data were analysed by using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: There was a notable improvement in the overall adherence to ventilator- associated pneumonia (VAP) preventive procedures after the intervention. Overall, there was a 16.2% improvement in adherence, with the average pre-intervention adherence for all practices examined being 66.5% and rising to 82.7% post- intervention. This improvement shows how well the intervention worked to improve adherence to research-based VAP preventive techniques.

Conclusion: The study highlights the critical role of continuous education and training programs in improving nurses' adherence to VAP prevention protocols. Implementing structured educational interventions can significantly enhance patient safety and reduce the burden of VAP in ICU settings. Further research is recommended to assess the long-term sustainability of these improvements.