Non-ventilator health care-associated pneumonia (NV-HAP): The infection preventionist's role in identifying NV-HAP

Abstract

One of the fundamental challenges in nonventilator health care-associated pneumonia (NV-HAP) surveillance is identifying cases and standardizing surveillance protocols. This section highlights clinical pneumonia definitions and current surveillance definitions, as well as the difficulty in case finding methodologies. In addition, we review current microbiology and molecular testing methods. Further, we explore future opportunities to leverage the electronic health care record in attempt to identify a reliable less burdensome data identification and collection methodology. Finally, we highlight the importance of a collaborative approach to prevention of NV- HAP, as well as strategies to assist the IP with facilitating interdisciplinary communication and uptake of evidence-based implementation strategies.

Keywords: Aspiration; Community-acquired pneumonia; HAI.