Which statement about community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is true?

• A. It is the least common cause of hospitalization
• B. It is acquired outside the hospital
• C. It is never associated with mortality
• D. It is always viral

Answer: (B)

Community-acquired pneumonia is defined by where the infection originates—outside the hospital or healthcare setting. That setting is what sets CAP apart from hospital-acquired pneumonia, which develops after a hospital stay or within a healthcare facility. Because of this, the statement that it is acquired outside the hospital is the best descriptor. CAP can be caused by bacteria (most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae), viruses, or atypical pathogens, so it is not limited to viral etiologies. It can lead to hospitalization and mortality, especially in older adults or those with comorbidities, so it is not never associated with mortality and it is not the least common cause of hospitalization.