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An Optimized Hemagglutination Inhibition (HI) Assay to Quantify Influenza-specific Antibody Titers
Published on: December 1, 2017
Evaluation of a geriatric inpatient influenza immunization program
Deena Hinshaw1, A Uma Chandran
1Division of Care of the Elderly, Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada. dhinshaw@ualberta.ca
American Journal of Infection Control
|May 3, 2011
Summary
This study assessed a hospital influenza immunization program for older inpatients. While 23.1% received vaccinations, process improvements are needed for better influenza vaccine coverage in elderly patients.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Influenza vaccination is crucial for preventing severe illness in older adults.
- Hospitalization presents an opportunity to administer influenza vaccines to eligible elderly patients.
- Evaluating existing immunization programs is key to improving public health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a hospital-based influenza immunization program for inpatients aged 65 years and older.
- To identify barriers and facilitators for influenza vaccination in this demographic within a hospital setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient records for the 2008-2009 influenza season.
- Inclusion criteria: inpatients aged ≥65 years.
- Data collection on documented eligibility screening and vaccination rates.
- Qualitative interviews with participating hospital staff and physicians.
Main Results:
- The study included 520 inpatients aged ≥65 years.
- Documented eligibility screening was performed for 45.0% of patients.
- Only 23.1% of eligible inpatients received influenza vaccination during their hospital stay.
- Staff and physicians identified process standardization and improved documentation as key areas for enhancement.
Conclusions:
- The hospital influenza immunization program for elderly inpatients had suboptimal vaccination rates.
- Gaps in screening and vaccination highlight the need for program optimization.
- Interprofessional feedback suggests that improving standardized processes and documentation is essential for enhancing future influenza immunization efforts in hospitals.
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