
Postoperative pneumonia (POP) is a common surgical complication that increases hospital stay, costs, and mortality. Oral hygiene before and after surgery can significantly reduce the risk of POP.
Barbara Quinn, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, FCNS, is a board-certified adult clinical nursing specialist and has been a National Association for Clinical Nurse Specialists Fellow since 2020. Quinn has 30 years of experience as a registered nurse and 16 years of experience as a clinical nurse specialist using evidence-based practice and the science of process improvement to impact patient outcomes. Quinn recently retired from her role as director of professional practice and nursing excellence for Sutter Health System for 24 hospitals. She continues researching, educating, and consulting, emphasizing nurse-sensitive outcomes such as preventing nonventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia. She is also a consultant for Stryker Sage.

Postoperative pneumonia (POP) is a common surgical complication that increases hospital stay, costs, and mortality. Oral hygiene before and after surgery can significantly reduce the risk of POP.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is a significant infection prevention concern, leading to high patient mortality, increased health care costs, and ICU usage. Oral hygiene is an effective preventive measure.

Published: September 10th 2024 | Updated: