An Epidemiological Study of Acute Poisoning In a Tertiary Care Centre

Acute poisoning represents a real health threatin the world. It is a common cause of admission to emergencydepartment and in intensive care unit. Periodic clinical andepidemiological studies are required to understand the patternof poisoning. This study aims to analyze epidemiological aspect,clinical profile, and outcome of acute poisoning in a tertiarycare hospital.Material and Methods: A cross sectional study was conductedat Government Medical College Hospital, Kota, Rajasthan. 102admitted patients were taken for study from January 2020 toAugust 2020. Epidemiological variables age, sex, type of poison,mode of exposure, clinical presentation and outcome werestudied.Results: The median age was 30.23 years with a malepredominance (54.9%). The circumstances of poisoning weresuicidal, accidental and unknown in 88.2%, 9.8%, and 1.96%respectively. Ingestion was the major route of exposure (98%)followed by inhalation (1.96%). The majority 33(32.4%) of caseswere of Organophosphorus poisoning followed by 17(16.7%)cases of Rodenticide poisoning. The main symptoms werenausea and vomiting in 90(88.2%) cases. Convulsions werenoted in 3(2.9%) patients. Gastric lavage was done for92(90.19%). 8 patients (7.84%) were needed mechanicalventilation. 7 patients (6.86%) were needed vasoactive drugs.The rate of mortality was 8.82%. The aluminium phosphidepoisoning was responsible for 44.4% deaths.Conclusion: Study revealed the high mortality associated withacute poisoning. Appropriate approach towards poisoning attertiary care center and prevention remains the best strategyfor reducing morbidity and mortality.