Kondle Raghu

ABSTRACT

Back Ground: Ninety-nine percent of fatal poisonings occur in developing countries, particularly among agricultural workers. In a particular area it is important to known the magnitude and pattern of acute poisonings as it is important for early diagnosis, treatment and for preventive measures. Aim: To identify and compare the clinical characteristics and risk factors in poisoning patients presenting to the ED of a tertiary care rural Hospital. Methods: Retrospective studies of 540 poisoning cases were recorded during the period of 4 years between April 2009 and April 2013 at Emergency Department, Narayana Medical College Hospital, Nellore, and Andhrapradesh. Fatal poisonings were studied for age, sex, socioeconomic status, marital status, type of poison and manner (accidental, suicidal or homicidal). Pre-hospital care, length of stay, outcome.