OCENA WIEDZY PIELĘGNIAREK NA TEMAT VAP W WYBRANYCH ODDZIAŁACH INTENSYWNEJ TERAPII WOJEWÓDZTWA PODKARPACKIEGO - BADANIE PILOTAŻOWE.

ABSTRACT: Introduction Because the largest group of intensive care units (ICU) patients are unconscious and require mechanical ventilation of the lungs, hospitalization at ICU carries the risk of dangerous infections. Many invasive procedures can lead to complications, for example ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Aim The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge that ICU nurses have on VAP and their role of VAP prevention. Material and methods The pilot study was carried out during a period of 60 days (from June 1st 2013 to July 31st 2013). 131 ICU nurses working at 7 different ICUs located around the Podkarpackie voivode- ship were enrolled into the study. The study was based on a survey prepared by the authors. Results The study demonstrated a correlation between prevention of VAP and the knowledge that nurses possessed. The older the nurses were and the more senior position they held, the more knowledge they possessed. Respondents with less experience, possessed less knowledge on the subject. Nurses involved in the study usually improved their qualifications through participation in specialized workshops and courses. Conclusions Nurses require regular training in accordance with current standards and guidelines. Unification of guidelines and protocols for VAP will contribute to the reduction in the risk of mechanical ventilation complications in patients treated in the ICU. Recommendations and guidelines for oral care and bronchial toilet need to be strictly followed. Developing and implementing uniform medical documentation standards for all ICUs in Poland would play a major role in the prevention of nosocomial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]