A randomized trial of chlorhexidine gluconate on oral bacterial pathogens in mechanically ventilated patients

• DOI: 10.1186/cc7967
• Publication Date: 2009-07-14T18:15:53Z
• Authors: Frank A Scannapieco; Jihnhee Yu; Krishnan Raghaven...; Angela Vacanti; Susan I Owens; Kenneth Wood; Joseph M Mylotte
• Keywords: Chlorhexidine gluconate

Abstract Introduction Dental plaque biofilms are colonized by respiratory pathogens in mechanically-ventilated intensive care unit patients. Thus, improvements oral hygiene these patients may prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. The goal of this study was to determine the minimum frequency (once or twice a day) for 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate application necessary reduce colonization 175 intubated trauma unit. Methods A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial tested topical placebo (vehicle alone), applied once day staff nurses. Quantitation cavity (teeth/denture/buccal mucosa) measured. Results Subjects were recruited from 1 March, 2004 until 30 November, 2007. While subjects microbiologic baseline data available 146 subjects, with 115 having full outcome assessment after at least 48 hours. Chlorhexidine reduced number Staphylococcus aureus , but not total enterics, Pseudomonas Acinetobacter dental test subjects. non-significant reduction pneumonia rate noted groups treated compared group (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.23 1.25, P 0.15). No evidence resistance noted, and no adverse events observed. differences outcomes between treatment arms. Conclusions decontamination did potential pathogens, it S. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov NCT00123123.