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

SummaryAimTo investigate attitudes, perceptions and knowledge of elderly hospital patients in regard to vaccination in general and pneumococcal vaccination in particular.SettingA hospital-based patient survey in Sydney, Australia.ParticipantsPatients aged 60 years and older who are admitted to selected wards in an 800-bed tertiary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia.MethodsA face-to-face interview administered to 200 inpatients.ResultsApproximately 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.ConclusionsPositive perception and attitude towards vaccination are significant factors associated with immunisation status. For the pneumococcal vaccination, having influenza vaccination is related to pneumococcal vaccination.