Nursing Home–Associated Pneumonia

Nursing home–associated pneumonia (NHAP) is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. The etiology of NHAP continues to be debated and has influenced treatment guideline recommendations. Diagnosis may not be straightforward but at least one respiratory symptom usually is present and the presence of hypoxemia is a key finding. Treatment recommendations vary depending on the organisms believed the predominant cause of NHAP. Pneumococcal and influenza vaccination remain the most important methods for prevention of NHAP at present.