Nosocomial pneumonia encompasses hospital-acquired pneumonia, healthcare-associated pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia. It is a major infectious problem in the hospitals. Though predominantly caused by endogenous bacteria colonised in the oropharynx and stomach, polymicrobial aetiology is not uncommon. The problem with multidrug resistant strains has been increasing. Hospital environment, equipment and staff are the sources, fomites and carriers of this infection from patient to patient. Diagnosis of nosocomial pneumonia has been simplified by the guidelines. Preventive measures to reduce the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia are simple, effective and economical. They just need to be followed. Empirical antibiotic therapy and de-escalation measures form the back bone of the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia.
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