VAP is the leading cause of death among hospital acquired infections
VAP causes prolongation of mechanical ventilation, ICU/hospital length of stay, and adds about $40,000 to the patient's admission
As we care for more and more intubated patients for longer and longer periods of time, it is crucial to know some simple preventative measures we can do in the ED to reduce morbidity and mortality
In the absence of contraindications, elevate the head of the bed to 30-45 degrees for intubated patients
This is a simple, no cost intervention that has been shown to decrease the incidence of VAP
