Optimizing educational initiatives to prevent ventilator-associated complications

We read with interest the article by Maurya et al reporting on an intervention to enhance knowledge of nursing staff regarding ventilator-associated complications. The authors describe the results of an educational initiative that increased the average level of knowledge from 53% in a pretest to 77% following an educational course. In our experience, knowledge test questionnaires work well as eye-openers and they also incite discussion and reflection on one's daily practice. It seems obvious that a high level of standard of care in intensive care units can only be achieved through a dedicated and well-trained nursing staff.