What is a common complication of long-term mechanical ventilation?

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a significant complication of long-term mechanical ventilation. This condition occurs when a patient develops pneumonia after being intubated and connected to a ventilator, typically due to the introduction of bacteria into the lower respiratory tract. Prolonged mechanical ventilation can disrupt the normal defense mechanisms of the airway and lungs, making patients more susceptible to infections.

Factors contributing to VAP include the presence of endotracheal tubes, which can introduce pathogens and bypass the upper airway's filtering capabilities. Additionally, the mechanical ventilator's settings and modes can create conditions favorable for bacterial growth, further increasing the risk of VAP.

Understanding this complication is vital for healthcare professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of implementing preventive strategies, such as maintaining proper oral hygiene, elevating the head of the bed, and employing selective decontamination protocols to reduce the incidence of pneumonia in intubated patients.