Factors associated with pneumococcal immunisation among hospitalised elderly persons: a survey of patient's perception, attitude, and knowledge

Abstract

Aim: To investigate attitudes, perceptions and knowledge of elderly hospital patients in regard to vaccination in general and pneumococcal vaccination in particular.

Setting: A hospital-based patient survey in Sydney, Australia.

Participants: Patients aged 60 years and older who are admitted to selected wards in an 800-bed tertiary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia.

Methods: A face-to-face interview administered to 200 inpatients.

Results: Approximately half (49%) of the patients had a positive attitude to vaccination whereas 59% had less positive perception. There were 35% of the patients who were unvaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal disease. Positive perception (OR 2.9, 95% C.I.=1.3-6.5) and attitude (OR 4.4, 95% C.I.=2.0-9.4) significantly predicted vaccination with both vaccines. Similarly the odds of receiving pneumococcal vaccination for those who had a more positive attitude and more correct knowledge were significant (OR=2.3, 95% C.I.=1.0-5.4; OR=2.7, 95% C.I.=1.1-6.8). We explored reasons for non-vaccination. Physician recommendation was listed as an important factor by patients.

Conclusions: Positive perception and attitude towards vaccination are significant factors associated with immunisation status. For the pneumococcal vaccination, having influenza vaccination is related to pneumococcal vaccination.