Table 2. Summary of Recommendations for Preventing
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) in
Preterm Neonates
Recommendation Rationale
Best practices May lower VAP rates and minimal risks of harm; benefits likely
outweigh potential risks
Special approaches Unknown impact on VAP rates, but risk of harm likely minimal;
reasonable to consider implementing if rates remain elevated despite
basic practices
Generally NOT
recommended
Unknown impact on VAP rates and inadequate data on risks
May be harmful; risk-benefit balance does not favor intervention
unless specifically indicated for reasons other than VAP prevention
Not recommended because appropriate products are not available or
approved for use in this population
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
