Question

"Which actions by the nurse help to decrease the risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in a patient who is intubated and receiving mechanical ventilation? Select all that apply.

A. Provide frequent oral care.
B. Elevate head of bed to at least 30 degrees.
C. Assess readiness for extubation daily.
D. Use aseptic technique when suctioning the patient.
E. Administer enteral feedings by the nasogastric tube."

Answer 1

To decrease the risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in a patient who is intubated and receiving mechanical ventilation, the nurse should provide frequent oral care, elevate the head of bed to at least 30 degrees, and use aseptic technique when suctioning the patient.

Step-by-step explanation:

To decrease the risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in a patient who is intubated and receiving mechanical ventilation, the nurse can take the following actions:

1. Provide frequent oral care: This helps to prevent the growth of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the risk of aspiration.
2. Elevate head of bed to at least 30 degrees: This position helps to prevent aspiration of oral secretions and gastric contents.
3. Use aseptic technique when suctioning the patient: This reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the lungs.