Which strategy in the plan of care for a mechanically ventilated critically ill patient has the highest priority to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia?
A) Suction frequently.
B) Provide mouth care.
C) Turn and position.
D) Administer antibiotics intravenously.
B) Provide mouth care.
Explanation: A) While the patient may need to be suctioned, this intervention does not reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
B) Research suggests that implementation of a standardized oral hygiene protocol using a toothbrush for mechanical cleaning of the teeth may significantly reduce the colonization of dental plaque with respiratory pathogens.
C) All critically ill patients need to turned and positioned, but this intervention does not reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia
D) Antibiotics may be needed in a critically ill patient, but this intervention does not reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia
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