Increasing influenza and pneumococcal vaccination and tuberculosis screening among residents of Colorado long-term care facilities

Abstract

Persons residing in long-term care facilities are especially vulnerable to potentially preventable morbidity and mortality caused by influenza, S. pneumoniae, and tuberculosis. This project's objective was to increase the rates of pneumococcal vaccination, tuberculosis screening, and annual influenza vaccination. Intervention consisted of staff training videos, sample policies, and educational materials for residents and their families. At baseline during the 1995-1996 flu season, 84% of Colorado long-term care residents were vaccinated for influenza; 16% of residents had ever received pneumococcal vaccination; and 59% had been screened for tuberculosis. At remeasurement during 1997 to 1998, influenza vaccination rates were up to 89%, p = 0.006. The percentage of residents who had ever received pneumococcal vaccination increased to 48% at remeasurement, p < 0.001. Tuberculosis screening rates increased to 83%, p < 0.001. Following an educational intervention targeting both residents and staff, residents were significantly more likely to receive all three preventive services.