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Oral Health and VAP Prevention — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardCommunity Dentistry & EpidemiologyOral Health and VAP PreventionNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the most effective method for preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia in hospital settings, supported by dental evidence?

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Correct answer: B — Oral chlorhexidine (0.12-2%) application

Oral chlorhexidine application (0.12-2%) in intubated ICU patients has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) by reducing the oral bacterial load (potential pathogens aspirated around the endotracheal tube cuff). This highlights the role of oral health in systemic health outcomes and supports the inclusion of oral care protocols in ICU management. This connection between oral health and systemic outcomes is increasingly recognised in interprofessional healthcare.

Reference: Burt & Eklund – Dentistry, Dental Practice, and the Community, 7th ed., 2005; Cochrane Systematic Reviews