Şule Asri, Bilge Karslı
Kastamonu Medical Journal - 2025;5(4):215-220
Aims: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (V AP) is a predominant healthcare-associated infection in intensive care units (ICUs), posing significant challenges to patient management due to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Effective prevention of V AP requires a comprehensive approach that combines mechanical and pharmacological interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and adherence of ICU staff regarding V AP prevention protocols in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This study was designed as a cross-sectional survey conducted in the ICU of a tertiary care hospital. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing the knowledge and practices of the ICU staff in preventing V AP . The questionnaire included demographic information and specific questions on V AP prevention strategies based on guidelines from reputable organizations. Participation was voluntary, and informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results: A total of 150 ICU staff members participated in this study, including 124 females and 26 males, with an average age of 31+/-5.15 years. Among the respondents, 48% reported having received training on V AP prevention and 57.3% were aware of their institution's procedures for V AP prevention. Correct response rates to V AP-related questions were generally higher among those with more experience, those who had received training, and those who were aware of institutional procedures. Significant differences were observed in the knowledge levels based on ICU bed count, years of experience, and V AP prevention education. Staff working in larger ICUs with more years of experience and those who had received training demonstrated higher correct response rates. Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in the knowledge and adherence of ICU staff to V AP prevention protocols. Only 48% of ICU staff had received formal training on V AP prevention, and 57.3% were aware of their institution's procedures. These findings underscore the importance of continuous education and robust institutional support in enhancing compliance with V AP prevention protocols. Structured educational interventions and consistent reinforcement of guidelines are crucial for mitigating V AP risks and improving ICU patient outcomes. Future research should focus on multi-center studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs to better understand the dynamics of knowledge retention and adherence over time.
