National Approach to Standardize and Improve Mechanical Ventilation

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Healthcare Quality Improvement
• Respiratory Therapy

Background:

• Mechanically ventilated patients face significant risks, including ventilator-associated events (VAEs).
• Standardizing care through evidence-based practices is crucial for improving patient outcomes in intensive care units (ICUs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a national collaborative quality improvement project, the National Approach to Standardize and Improve Mechanical Ventilation (NASAM) in Saudi Arabia.
• To reduce the incidence of VAEs, mortality, and duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative quality improvement initiative involving multiple health systems across Saudi Arabia.
• Implementation of evidence-based practices in ICUs nationwide.
• Phased rollout targeting 100 ICUs, with 78 registered by March 2019.

Main Results:

• Significant leadership support across all health sectors indicates a strong commitment to the project's goals.
• Broad participation with 78 ICUs registered from 6 health sectors, 48 hospitals, and 27 cities by March 2019.

Conclusions:

• The NASAM project demonstrates a nationwide commitment to standardizing and improving mechanical ventilation care.
• The project is well-positioned to impact patient outcomes by reducing VAEs and associated morbidities.