Impact of Outpatient Antibiotic Use on Pneumonia Mortality
Author Information
Author(s): Mortensen Eric M, Restrepo Marcos I, Pugh Jacqueline A, Anzueto Antonio
Primary Institution: University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Hypothesis
Is prior outpatient antibiotic use associated with increased 30-day mortality for patients hospitalized with pneumonia?
Conclusion
Prior outpatient antibiotic use is not significantly associated with 30-day mortality for patients hospitalized with pneumonia.
Supporting Evidence
- Mortality was 8.1% at 30-days.
- 17% of subjects received antibiotics within 30-days of presentation.
- Unadjusted mortality for those who had received prior antibiotics was 7.0% vs. 8.3% for those who had not.
Takeaway
This study found that taking antibiotics before being hospitalized for pneumonia doesn't seem to make you more likely to die from it.
Methodology
A retrospective cohort study conducted at two tertiary teaching hospitals analyzing 30-day mortality in patients with pneumonia.
Potential Biases
The sample was predominantly male due to the inclusion of a VA hospital, which may affect generalizability.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all confounding factors.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 59 years, 78% male, 84% admitted through the emergency department.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.6
Confidence Interval
0.5–2.1
Statistical Significance
p = 0.6
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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