Pattern of injuries at the emergency unit of a Federal Teaching Hospital in north-east Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Traumatic injuries are on the increase in many of our hospitals with varying aetiology, severity and mode of  presentation. This study therefore, aimed to appraise the various types of injuries seen and attended to at the emergency unit of the study centre.
Method This was a prospective cross-sectional study carried out over a 7-month period (September 2014-March 2015), on patients that presented to the emergency unit. Relevant investigations were carried out and these were tailored according to the patient's pathology. Surgical intervention was required in some patients as part of the resuscitation protocol while others were managed non-operatively. Patients were thereafter referred to and admitted under various sub-specialties for expert care. Data analysis was done using Epi info 3.5.1
Result: There were a total of 86 patients out of which 29 patients declined orthodox treatment. The remaining 57 patients comprised 31 (54.4%) males and 26 (45.6%) females (M:F =1.2 :1). Their age ranged between 8 to 60 years. Regarding the aetiology, gunshots were the most predominant cause of injuries (23, 40.4%) followed by knives (20, 35.1%). The abdomen was far more injured than any other parts of the body followed by the extremities both as isolated and combined injuries
Conclusion: Concerted efforts are required to curb the rising incidence of traumatic injuries. This will entail dedicated efforts from the community and the Government through her various public enlightening agencies.

Keywords: Pattern of injuries, emergency unit, North-East Nigeria