[Mortality and survival in a geriatric hospital: methods of measuring and results]

The hospital case fatality rate (deaths divided by discharges) has no meaning for geriatric hospitals in so far as they serve the double function of a general hospital for the aged and a home for those with a very bad prognosis. In fact, for the second group, mortality depends on the time that has elapsed since administration. The question arises of what type of measurement should therefore be proposed for such establishments. The use of the classical demographic rate and case fatality rate according to length of stay is discussed. The two measures are in this case considered to be inadequate since the second gives a false impression of mortality. The only tool which serves to convey a meaningful idea of mortality in this specific situation is a table of discharges expressed in the form of a life table. It is very easy to calculate. The discussion uses data drawn from the Geneva Geriatric Hospital.