PREVENTION OF VENTILATOR ASSOCIATED INFECTION IN NEONATES WITH RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME

UNLABELLED: The aim of the research was to reduce the risk ventilator-associated infections (VAI) in neonates with respiratory distress syndrome. DESIGN: retrospective, observational, single center, historical control. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 113 newborns were included in the study. Ventilator-associated pneumonia was diagnosed based on the criteria of VAP CDC/NNIS. Ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis was determined on the basis of criteria of Code LRI-BRON proposed CDC National Healthcare Safety Network. Patients divided into two groups. In the main group (n=54) hand hygiene, closed suction system and non-invasive mechanical ventilation were used as a methods of prevention of ventilator-associated infection (IAI). In comparison group (n = 59) hand hygiene only. RESULTS: The frequency of VAI was 27.5 per 1000 days of ventilation. Timing of development and the etiology of VAI were comparable in both groups of patients the duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly (p = 0.01) lower in the main group. In the main group length of stay in the intensive care unit (p = 0.01) and duration of hospital treatment (p = 0.047) decreased The incidence of VAI was significantly lower in the main group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Closed suction system with hand hygiene and early weaning from the respirator are acceptable methods of prevention of lower respiratory tract infection associated with mechanical ventilation in neonates with respiratorv distress syndrome.