Urban traffic accidents in Isfahan city: a study of prehospital response time intervals

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Traffic accidents are a major public health concern worldwide, resulting in significant injuries, fatalities, and economic costs. In urban zones, traffic accident dynamics can vary significantly due to population density, infrastructure, and emergency response capabilities. The present study was conducted to determine the time intervals of prehospital emergencies in traffic accidents by separating the 15 zones of Isfahan city, Iran. Methods This descriptive study was conducted in 2023. The sampling approach involved a census that included all prehospital emergency missions that occurred in the second half of 2022. A total of 7613 missions were examined. To collect the data, a checklist covering demographic characteristics and mission-specific features was utilized. The information was recorded in an Excel spreadsheet and described via the prehospital emergency information system. Results After analyzing 7,613 urban missions, it was determined that Zone 12 had the highest number of prehospital emergency missions in all three time periods: morning, afternoon, and evening. Therefore, all the times (reaction time, response time, scene time, transfer time, and hospitalization time) were in accordance with prehospital emergency time standards in Iran. Conclusion On the basis of the findings of this study, it is crucial to identify zones with greater population movement, highways, or high traffic volume and establish bases in suitable locations whenever feasible. Additionally, in zones with a greater number of missions, there should be an appropriate number of ambulances in proportion to the mission volume.

Keywords

• Prehospital emergency
• Traffic accidents
• Road traffic injuries
• Reaction time
• Response time
• Scene time