Silver tube coatings in pneumonia prevention

Nurs Times. 2012 Sep;108(36):21-3.

Abstract

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common hospital-acquired infection that is associated with higher mortality rates, increased healthcare costs and longer hospitalisations. One intervention that has recently been used to reduce the prevalence of VAP is a new type of endotracheal tube impregnated with silver sulfadiazine.

Aim: To investigate whether the use of silver-coated endotracheal tubes reduces VAP in adult intubated patients.

Method: A thorough evidence-based literature review was conducted to investigate whether the use of silver-coated endotracheal tubes reduces the incidence of VAP. The following databases were consulted: CINAHL; Medline; Health Source: Nursing and Academic edition; ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Source; Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; TRIP Database; and National Guideline Clearinghouse.

Results: The use of silver-coated endotracheal tubes reduces the prevalence of VAP in intubated patients but should not be used as an isolated intervention.

Conclusion: More research is needed to assess whether the benefits of silver-coated endotracheal tubes, coupled with additional VAP prevention strategies, outweigh the costs incurred.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Pneumonia / prevention & control*
  • Silver / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Silver