Introduction
Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection can lead to significant mortality and morbidity in older patients. COVID-19 vaccine is vital to reduce the complications associated with the infection. Inpatient vaccination service would be of particular benefit to older patients who often have difficulty accessing vaccination service. This study evaluated the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination in inpatients admitted to the geriatric ward.
Methods
Medical charts were reviewed of geriatric inpatients between August-October 2021. Opportunistic COVID vaccination rate was assessed pre- and post- having a designated medical officer assigned to facilitate the vaccination process. This included identifying eligibility, obtaining informed consent and coordinating with the hospital vaccination service.
Results
Sixty-six patients (mean age 85±2) and 67 patients (mean age 83±6) were identified in the pre-intervention and post-intervention group respectively. The demographics including age, gender, length of stay, place of residence, and comorbidity index were similar between the two groups. In the pre-intervention group, 19 (29%) patients were fully vaccinated. Of those who are eligible, majority reported lack of opportunity as reason for not completing the vaccination. One patient received vaccination as inpatient. The opportunity for vaccination was potentially missed in 25 (83%) patients. In the post-intervention group, 36 (53%) were not fully vaccinated, 19 (53%) reported lack of opportunity for vaccination. Nine (43%) patients subsequently received their COVID vaccination as inpatient. Four were consented but discharged prior to vaccine administration.
Discussion
A proactive approach improved opportunistic uptake of COVID vaccination in the geriatric inpatient population. Streamlining consent process and increased vaccination frequency can further increase uptake.