Pattern Of Cases of Acute Poisoning in A Rural Tertiary Care Center in Northern India

Abstract

Introduction: Poisoning is a common medico-social problem. It is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality. Our study is to determine the socio demographic profile of the poisoning cases reported and to find out the pattern of poisoning cases at a tertiary care hospital in rural set up. Method: Participants comprised of acute poisoning admissions to the emergency of UPRIMS & R, Saifai, Etawah, U.P. during 8 months period. Data regarding pattern of poisoning, basic demographics and drug utilization were collected by retrospective review of patient records. Results: Major poisoning cases were observed in the age group between 21-30 years (39.09%). The populations with possibility of exposure to poisoning in their occupations were farmers (41.5%), housewives (31.2%) and students (18.8%). The maximum numbers of poisoning cases reported were due to organophosphorus (57.1%).The number of intentional poisoning cases (91.9%) were more when compared to accidental poisoning cases (5.2%). Conclusion: Prevailing treatment protocols require updating on proper guidelines for better management of poisoning. Pattern and magnitude of poisoning are multidimensional and demand multi-sectoral approach for facing this problem. There is need for stringent pesticide regulation laws and counselling and training programs to reduce incidence of poisonings.

Keywords

• Poisoning
• pattern
• organophosphorus
• rural