Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment as a Useful Adjunctive Tool for Pneumonia
Published on: May 6, 2014
Treatment of pneumonia in elderly patients
Malina Schmidt-Ioanas1, Hartmut Lode
1Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Department of Chest and Infectious Diseases, Lungenklinik HeckeshornZum Heckeshorn, 3314109 Berlin, Germany.
Abstract:
Pneumonia represents the leading cause of infection-related death and the fifth cause of overall mortality, in the elderly. Several risk factors for acquiring pneumonia in older age have been reported, such as alcoholism, lung and heart diseases, nursing home residence and swallowing disorders. The clinical characteristics of pneumonia in the elderly differ substantially compared with younger patients, and the severity of the disease is strongly associated with increased age and age-related comorbidities. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the leading pathogen responsible for pneumonia in elderly; enteric Gram-negative rods should be considered in nursing-home-acquired pneumonia, as well anaerobes in patients with aspiration pneumonia. Antimicrobial therapy should take into account the most recent guidelines, which are briefly presented in this review. A special consideration should be given to the preventive measures, including vaccination, oral care and nutrition.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed.
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Atypical Pneumonia
