Evaluation of Necessity for Intensive Care Stay, Mortality, and Morbidity in Poisoning Cases Admitted to the Emergency Department
Author:
Abstract
Keywords
Abstract
Aim: Intoxications can occur as a result of the ingestion of the drugs or substances with a suicidal purpose or unintentional exposure to toxic substances. Patients are treated in emergency department, ward or intensive care unit.
Materials and Methods: We recorded demographic data of patients, including age, gender, coexisting medical conditions, and psychiatric history. The factors causing acute intoxication, the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at the time of admission, suicidal intent, the need for hospitalization (ward or intensive care unit), and mortality status were assessed.
Results: A total of 120 patients were included in the study. 67 patients (55.8%) were identified with suicidal intent. The ratio of suicidal intent among females was significantly higher compared to males (p=0.005).8% of the patients were monitored in the emergency department, 9.2% in the general ward, and 55% in the intensive care unit. Among patients with a diagnosis of suicide, no mortality was observed. It was noted that 7 patients who were deceased had methanol intoxication, and 2 had mushroom-related intoxication. Among patients diagnosed with suicide, the most common causes of intoxication were analgesics (49.25%), antidepressants (25.37%), and antipsychotics (23.88%).
Conclusion: The ready availability and widespread and irregular use of antidepressants and analgesics contribute to frequent ingestion of these drugs for suicidal intent. In terms of public health, paying attention to regional mushroom consumption is crucial for reducing related fatalities.