Pneumonia

Pneumonia is the infection of the lung, most often by bacteria, but also by virii, fungi, protozoans, and rarely helminths. Pneumonia is the 8th leading cause of death in the United States.

Factors Increasing Colonization

• Host Factors
  • Smoking
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Other Illnesses
• Surgery
• Medications
  • Broad Spectrum Antibiotics
  • H2 Blockers
  • Antacids
• Invasive Devices
• Respiratory Therapy Equipment

Factors Increasing Aspiration

• Alchoholism
• CNS Depressants
• CNS Disease
• Nasogastric Intubation
• Vocal cord dysfunction