Knowledge and Perception of Physical Therapist Towards Ventilator Associated Pneumonia

Abstract

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients, with prevention requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Physiotherapists (PTs) can play a pivotal role in VAP prevention through early mobilization and respiratory care interventions, yet their knowledge and perceptions in this domain remain underexplored in low- and middle-income countries such as Pakistan. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge and perceptions of Pakistani physiotherapists regarding VAP and their role in its prevention and management. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study surveyed 380 physiotherapists from multiple healthcare facilities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi using a validated, self-administered questionnaire comprising 13 knowledge-based and 11 perception-based items measured on five-point Likert scales. Participants were recruited via non-probability convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate regression to explore associations between knowledge, perceptions, and participant characteristics. Results: Most participants (75.8%) were aged 20–25 years; 70% held a DPT degree and 71.2% had ≤1 year of experience. Knowledge regarding classical VAP signs was moderate (mean score 3.85±0.67) but understanding of causative pathogens and physiotherapy’s preventive role was limited. Perceptions were generally positive, though only 5% consistently viewed VAP as a serious complication. No demographic variables were significant predictors of higher knowledge scores. Conclusion: Despite favorable perceptions, physiotherapists demonstrated substantial knowledge gaps regarding VAP prevention and management, underscoring the need for targeted education and ICU-specific training programs to optimize their contribution to multidisciplinary care.