New test aims to get the right antibiotics to ICU pneumonia patients faster

This study tests whether a rapid test (multiplex PCR) combined with a treatment algorithm can help doctors choose the best antibiotics sooner for patients on ventilators who develop pneumonia. About 124 adults in intensive care will be randomly assigned to either the new strategy or standard care. The goal is to see if more patients get effective, tailored antibiotics within 24 hours, reducing unnecessary broad-spectrum drug use.