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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 1997; 18(2): 141-147
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1009341
Copyright © 1997 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia in the Non-ICU Medical Patient

Anthony Dal Nogare, Shashi Sharma
  • Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Nosocomial pneumonia (NP) affects about 0.6 to 1.1 non-ICU patients per 100 admissions and has an associated mortality of 30 to 60%. The pathogenesis centers on oropharyngeal bacterial colonization and subsequent aspiration. The most common pathogens are aerobic gram-negative rods and Staphylococcus aureus. Prevention begins with identification of high-risk patients, elevation of the head of the bed to prevent aspiration, and meticulous handwashing. Unfortunately, making a specific microbiologic diagnosis is often difficult and antibiotic selection is usually empiric.

Key Words:

nosocomial infections - pneumonia - bacterial colonization