STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTING VENTILATOR-ASSOCIATED PNEUMONIA IN ADULT INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent one of the major challenges in hospital settings, especially in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), where factors such as clinical severity, invasive procedures, and multidrug-resistant microorganisms increase the risk of complications. Among these infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) stands out as a condition with high morbidity and mortality, significantly affecting length of stay and hospital costs. Objective: To analyze, through an integrative literature review, the main strategies for preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia in adult patients hospitalized in ICUs.
Methodology: This is an integrative review, developed through searches in national and international scientific databases using descriptors related to VAP, mechanical ventilation, nursing care, and prevention. Articles published from 2019 to september 2025 were included, available in full and directly related to preventive measures applied in ICUs. Analysis and discussion of results: The studies indicate that interventions such as head-of-bed elevation, oral hygiene with chlorhexidine, proper cuff management, subglottic suctioning, daily sedation interruption, and strict adherence to hand hygiene constitute the most effective practices for reducing VAP. The importance of institutional protocols, continuous staff training, and epidemiological surveillance is also highlighted as essential for standardizing care and improving outcomes. Conclusion: Preventing VAP requires a multifactorial approach, involving an integrated effort from the multidisciplinary team, with nursing playing a central role. Systematic adherence to prevention bundles and investment in continuing education are essential strategies to strengthen patient safety and reduce the incidence of this infection in ICUs.