What is a common nursing action to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia?

Performing mouth care once every 2 hours is a critical nursing action to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This practice helps maintain oral hygiene, which is essential for patients on mechanical ventilation. Bacteria and secretions can accumulate in the oral cavity, making it a potential source of aspiration into the lungs, which could lead to pneumonia. By implementing more frequent oral care, healthcare providers significantly lower the bacterial load and reduce the risk of infection.

Additionally, regular mouth care can help keep the mucous membranes moist and healthy, further preventing complications related to intubation and ventilation. The timing and frequency of oral care are specifically influenced by the patient's condition and the ventilation protocol in place, with two-hour intervals typically being effective in preventing the buildup of pathogens in the oral cavity.