Pneumonia is an infection of the lung that is commonly caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Since most cases of pneumonia are bacterial infections, they can be treated with antibiotics.

Before receiving their first antibiotic treatment, pneumonia patients should have a blood culture taken in order to determine the type of pneumonia they have. Patients also should receive the most appropriate initial antibiotic and that antibiotic should be given within an appropriate time frame after the patient's arrival at the hospital.

To prevent future occurrences, patients should be immunized against pneumonia and influenza. Patients who have a history of tobacco use should also receive smoking cessation advice and/or counseling during their hospital stay.

Below you will see how often HHC is following best practice standards of pneumonia care.

Appropriate and Timely Treatment and Prevention
January 2008 - December 2008

Hospital-Specific Data