Journal for specialists in pediatric nursing : JSPN
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J Spec Pediatr Nurs · Oct 2019
What are the effects of care bundles on the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in paediatric and neonatal intensive care units? A systematic review.
The purpose of this review was to ascertain the impact of ventilator bundles on the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in mechanically ventilated neonates and children in intensive care units. ⋯ This systematic review determines that ventilator bundles impact positively on the incidence of VAP in critically ill neonates and children in the neonatal intensive care unit and paediatric intensive care unit. However, the variations in the bundle elements and insufficient valid evidence necessitates further research in the area to validate the findings and to ensure standardisation of clinical practice. Prevention of VAP is aimed at avoiding the risk of aspiration in the lungs, colonisation of respiratory tract with pathogenic microorganisms and contamination of respiratory equipment. Moreover, the implementation of evidence-based interventions grouped together is fundamental to improve patient outcomes. It is recommended that a further bona fide research is required to standardise the components of paediatric ventilator bundles.