A survey of ventilator circuitry changing practices in the UK.
Ventilator changing practices are diverse. Cost savings could be made without sacrificing patient safety. Diagnostic criteria and method of reporting nosocomial pneumonia varies. Bacterial filters offer protection to the ventilator, reduce colonisation of circuitry and the risk of transference to the hands of personnel. Changes to practice must be supported by a rigorous surveillance system.
Harrison
L
L
Department of Acute and Critical Care Nursing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston.
D017046:Cost Savings; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods*; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000451:nursing; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D006113:United Kingdom