Preventing Non-Ventilator Health Care Acquired Pneumonia

Health care acquired pneumonia not related to a ventilator is an extremely under-recognized threat to patient morbidity and mortality. In a recent study, it was tied with surgical site infection for the number one hospital acquired infection. With mortality rates and hospital length of stay similar to ventilator-associated pneumonia, health care professionals can make a difference in preventing the infection by implementing simple patient care interventions such as oral care and mobility. This course explores why the hospitalized patient is at risk for pneumonia. An in-depth look at basic care practices that impact outcomes associated with reducing health care acquired pneumonia are outlined. This course content is applicable to nurses and other health care professionals who work with patients in acute care, rehabilitation and long-term care settings.