Publication: Pattern of poisoning cases in Emergency Department of Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital
Date
2008
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: This study was conducted to determine the pattern and severity of poisoning cases in Emergency Department
of Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal (KMCTH).
Design: Retrospective observational study.
Materials and methods: Hospital records of all admissions to the Emergency Department of Kathmandu Medical
College Teaching Hospital (KMCTH) following acute poisoning were revised and all data from February 2007 to
February 2008 were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: This retrospective observational study was performed on 148 cases of poisoning who attended Emergency
Department of KMCTH over a period of one year. The overall male to female ratio was 1.05:1. Poisoning was most
common in the age group 21-30 years (40.5%). The most common causes of poisoning in adults were organophosphorous
compounds and in children was kerosene oil. Oral route (79.05%) was the most common route of administration. 66.2%
of cases were intentional poisoning for suicidal attempt. Students (43.9%) and service holders (18.9%) were commonly
involved in poisoning.
Conclusion: It was seen that adult between 21-30 years of age were more prone to suicidal poisoning with
organophosphorous compounds and children of 1-10 years of age were more susceptible to accidental poisoning with
kerosene oil.
Key words: Kerosene, Organophosphorous, Poisoning, Suicide.
Description
Thapa SR 1, Lama P1, Karki N2, Khadka SB 3
1 Medical Officer, 2 Intern, 3 Lecturer, Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal, Nepal