Question

Which of the following is LEAST likely to reduce incidence of VAP?

A) Frequent oral care and hygiene using Chlorhexidine
B) Administration of an H2 receptor inhibitor
C) Daily sedation vacation and assessment of readiness to extubate
D) Prophylactic use of antibiotics

Answer 1

Prophylactic use of antibiotics is LEAST likely to reduce the incidence of VAP, as it can lead to antibiotic-resistant organisms and is not typically recommended solely for VAP prevention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which practice is LEAST likely to reduce the incidence of VAP (Ventilator-associated Pneumonia). Among the options provided:

• Frequent oral care and hygiene using Chlorhexidine is known to help prevent VAP by reducing the presence of potential pathogens.
• The administration of an H2 receptor inhibitor can reduce stomach acid and the risk of aspiration, which might help prevent VAP indirectly.
• Daily sedation vacation and assessment of readiness to extubate encourage earlier removal of the ventilator, which can significantly reduce the risk of VAP.
• However, the prophylactic use of antibiotics is controversial because while it may reduce certain infections, it can also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant organisms and is not typically recommended solely for the prevention of VAP.

Therefore, prophylactic use of antibiotics is LEAST likely to reduce the incidence of VAP compared to the other practices listed.