Unravelling the complexity of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a systematic methodological literature review of diagnostic criteria and definitions used in clinical research.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a prevalent and grave hospital-acquired infection that affects mechanically ventilated patients. Diverse diagnostic criteria can significantly affect VAP research by complicating the identification and management of the condition, which may also impact clinical management.

Objectives

We conducted this review to assess the diagnostic criteria and the definitions of the term "ventilator-associated" used in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of VAP management.

Search methods

Based on the protocol (PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019147411), we conducted a systematic search on MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane CENTRAL for RCTs, published or registered between 2010 and 2024.

Selection criteria

We included completed and ongoing RCTs

SUBMITTER: Fally M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11221085 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature