Aspiration pneumonitis: risk factors and management of the critically ill patient.

Pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents is a significant source of patient morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Prevention by identifying patients at risk for aspiration and initiating prophylaxis is the most effective method of reducing complications associated with aspiration pneumonitis. H2-receptor antagonists are among the best prophylactic agents because of their efficacy in reducing gastric acidity and their convenience of administration.