Background and aims: Pneumonia, which is common among the elderly, is associated with untoward consequences. We sought, therefore, to describe the incidence of death and readmission, and to determine predictors of these variables during the year subsequent to index hospitalization.
Methods: This study involved the follow-up of 153 patients surviving an index hospitalization for pneumonia. Death and readmission were documented, and the relationship of selected variables with these outcomes was determined.
Results: Ninety-six (62.6%) of the patients had died or were readmitted. Only a count of comorbidities was correlated significantly with death, readmission, and either death or readmission. Using regression analysis, death alone was predicted by multiple variables. Grip strength and comorbidity counts correctly classified 75.2% of patients relative to that outcome.
Conclusions: Untoward outcomes are likely among patients surviving acute hospitalization for pneumonia. These outcomes are related to variables that can be targeted in secondary prevention efforts.